‘GAA Catfish’ probe shelved by PSNI

The PSNI has shelved an investigation into a 'GAA catfish' alleged to have targeted a well-known Co Derry Gaelic football star. A police probe was launched earlier this year after the prominent player was targeted and made a complaint. The online fraudster is believed to have used multiple fake accounts to lure unsuspecting victims in a practice known as 'catfishing'.

Earlier this year Co Armagh woman, Niamh Farrell, strongly denied claims she was behind the fake profiles. The Portadown woman's Belfast-based lawyer, Owen Beattie, of Owen Beattie Solicitors, told The Irish News in March that his client "absolutely denies these spurious allegations". It is understood Ms Farrell was never contacted by police in relation to any complaint.

"Ms Farrell has always denied these allegations," he said. "We will continue to closely scrutinise any commentary that seeks to attack the good character of our client, but we trust that the wider public and media outlets will now draw a line under this chapter, so that our client can move forward with her life and career".