Local council targeted in €500,000 payment fraud

Gardaí are investigating a major payment fraud after a local council was targeted for over €500,000.

Westmeath County Council was made aware of the issue last Friday and contacted Gardaí.

It's understood the transaction took place in January and has cost the council €515,000.

The payment fraud is reported to have been initiated by a third party and Westmeath County Council has now engaged the services of specialist advisers.

Gardaí are investigating the incident and the Chief Executive of Westmeath County Council is due to make a statement in the coming hour.