A garda hunt has begun for a gang who broke into the home of dancer Michael Flatley and stole a valuable rhino horn.
The dancer was at home with his wife Niamh and son Michael Junior at the time of the raid yesterday evening, but they were uninjured during the robbery. Flatley noticed the break in at around 6.30 yesterday evening, after it had happened. The family were unharmed - but deeply upset by the intrusion and robbery.
Gardaí believe Michael Flatley's Co. Cork home was targeted by thieves who were intent on taking only the rhino horn, and nothing else.
Rhino horns are often targeted by criminals who can sell them for up to $65,000 per kilo on the black market.
Gardaí from Fermoy carried out a forensic examination at the Castlehyde mansion, they are also examining CCTV footage from the house and grounds.
Last April, three masked men broke into a warehouse belong to the National Museum of Ireland, tied up a security guard and made off with four rhino heads, holding eight horns.
