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The Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation is investigating several incidents in which clothes and other personal items belonging to its 27-strong crew were looted from the 49-metre, 400-tonne German vessel UC-42. It sank during a mine-laying operation in 1917. The hull appears to have been damaged by rogue divers attempting to remove a propeller.

The underwater archaeology unit of the Department of Arts and Heritage has received reports of damage to and removal of pieces of the wreck and other objects from the site.

According to underwater archaeologist Connie Kelleher, the wreck is particularly sensitive as it contains the remains of seamen who perished when the boat sank.

"The site, first and foremost, is a war grave, with up to 27 individuals having drowned when it sank in September 1917.

"To date, we have received reports of the structure being recently damaged by divers attempting to remove parts of it, of items that belonged to the crew being taken off the site and that one of the propellers was being made ready to be recovered, as evidenced by recent work to it.

"The site has a particular sensitivity due to it being a relatively recent German naval loss with crew who are known by name, many of who are likely to have close living relatives. The German Embassy has indicated its legitimate interest in its protection, preservation and non-disturbance."