Gardaí (Irish Police) are investigating the disappearance of a child whom they fear may have died in unreported and suspicious circumstances in Dublin.

The child, a boy, was last seen at around the age of 3-and-a-half and has not been seen for a number of years, RTÉ are reporting.

Gardaí were first alerted to the case on Friday by the Republic of Ireland’s child and family agency, Tusla.

A residence in Donabate, County Dublin, has since been searched.

In a statement Tusla said a referral was made to An Garda Siochana on 29 August following an application made for a social welfare payment.

Tulsa have said they will “continue to work closely with the Gardai” throughout the investigation.

RTÉ are reporting that detectives suspect the child has come to harm and that his body may have been buried or disposed of.

A statement said: “Gardaí are continuing to carry out operational enquiries in North Co. Dublin into the current whereabouts and welfare of a child.

“An Garda Síochána is not in a position to provide any further detail at this time.”

No arrests have been made.