Gardaí are investigating after a gang hijacked an articulated truck full of COVID testing kits while the driver was resting in a layby near Slane earlier this week.

The driver was tied up and threatened by the hijackers as they stole the lorry – but was later released on the side of the road.

The lorry was recovered the following day; however, the load of COVID testing kits it was carrying had been stolen.

Gardaí said the hijackers stole the van at around 11pm on Tuesday and released the driver a short time later.

He reported the hijacking to Gardaí and the lorry was found empty on Wednesday.

Investigators are appealing to anyone who was near the N2 Fennor Road, between Collon and south of Slane, or surrounding areas between 11pm and 12:30pm to make contact.

They are particularly interested in talking to anyone who may have dashcam footage.

They are also urging any businesses who may have been offered a deal on a large quantity of COVID testing kits to come forward.