Gardaí searching for an eight-year-old boy who has been missing from Drogheda for more than six weeks have launched a murder investigation.

Kyran Durnin was first reported missing from his home on August 30th.

In a statement, Gardaí said they have been unable to find Kyran or uncover “any information on his current whereabouts or any evidence that he is currently alive” in the weeks since.

Following “extensive enquiries”, investigators now believe that Kyran is missing, presumed dead.

Kyran Durnin. Image: An Garda Síochána

This morning, Gardaí confirmed that a murder investigation has now been launched.

Investigators are continuing to appeal for any information in relation to Kyran’s disappearance.

A Garda spokesperson said: “Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, will be welcomed by the investigation team.”

“This information will be treated in the strictest confidence,” she said.

No arrests have been made to date and the Garda investigation is ongoing.