A garda is in hospital after he was assaulted and doused in an accelerant in County Cavan overnight.

Investigators said the uniformed and unarmed garda called for assistance at around 2am while out on patrol in the Loughan, Blacklion area.

He was “disorientated and unable to explain the exact circumstances of events taking place”; however, his colleagues were able to locate him using AVPLS (Automatic Vehicle & Personnel Location System).

When his colleagues responded they found him injured and in a “disorientated state”.

Gardaí said there was a “strong smell of an accelerant in the air” and his uniform was soaked in the accelerant.

His official marked patrol car was also found at the scene.

He was taken to Sligo University Hospital where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

In a statement, Chief Superintendent McGovern form the Cavan Monaghan Garda Division said the attack was “extremely concerning”.

“This is a very serious and concerning attack on an unarmed member of An Garda Síochána going about their normal duties keeping people safe,” he said.

“Thankfully, the incident has not resulted in a fatality or other serious injury.

“The exact motive for this attack is yet to be determined but it is extremely concerning that a member of An Garda Síochána appears to have been targeted and doused in some form of accelerant. The exact intent of this attack is unknown at this time.

“I am appealing for any person with any information on this attack to contact investigating Gardaí.”

The scene is sealed off this morning with the Garda Technical Bureau due to carry out an examination.

Investigators are looking to speak to anyone who was driving on the N16, passing Loughan House Prison, or the R206 and R207 at their junction with the N16, between 7pm and 3am.

They are particularly interested in talking to anyone who may have camera footage from the area.

The injured Garda and his family are being provided with supports.