Gardai seize nearly €14 million worth of cocaine and cannabis, taking down key figures in an organized crime group.
The seizure of almost 200 kilograms of cocaine has successfully dismantled an entire drug supply network operating in West Dublin, according to a top police official. Assistant Commissioner Paul Cleary from Dublin's Metropolitan Region made this announcement following a raid on an industrial unit in Mountmellick, Laois, on Tuesday. During the operation, gardai (Irish police) discovered 182 kilograms of cocaine and 4 kilograms of cannabis hidden within the former motor garage.
Eight vehicles, some with concealed compartments, were also seized, containing an additional 17 kilograms of cocaine and €25,000 in cash. The total estimated street value of the confiscated drugs exceeds €14 million. Speaking on Wednesday, Assistant Commissioner Cleary stated that this intelligence-led operation, which spanned several months, built upon a significant drug seizure last year. He emphasized that this latest seizure effectively crippled the entire cocaine supply chain destined for West Dublin and dealt a severe blow to the organized crime group behind it. He highlighted that the drugs were packaged and prepared for distribution throughout West Dublin, preventing their entry into communities already ravaged by drug addiction. The Assistant Commissioner revealed that the gang, believed to be led by two brothers and under scrutiny by the Criminal Assets Bureau, had employed a sophisticated method of concealment. They had expertly cut into vehicle panels, hidden the drugs, and then meticulously sealed them back, making detection extremely challenging. Gardai believe the Laois industrial unit served as the primary location for mixing pure cocaine with other substances before repackaging and transportation to Dublin. Assistant Commissioner Cleary explained that the unit's previous use as a motor garage provided the perfect cover for this illicit operation. He commended his team's expertise in uncovering these hidden compartments. While not surprised by the sophistication of the operation, Assistant Commissioner Cleary acknowledged the lengths organized crime groups will go to in their pursuit of profit. He emphasized that the significant seizure of drugs and cash last year, amounting to €9.6 million and €1 million respectively, had already severely disrupted the gang's activities. He reiterated the Garda's unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and keeping Dublin's streets safe, stating that they would continue to target these criminal networks relentlessly. Three individuals arrested during the searches remain in custody for up to seven days. Assistant Commissioner Cleary stated that these individuals are high-ranking members of the gang and that their arrest represents a significant victory in the ongoing fight against organized crime
DRUGSEIZURE ORGANIZED CRIME WEST DUBLIN COCAINE IRELAND GARDAI CRIMINAL ASSETS BUREAU
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