Four Arrested in Meath Following €2m Drug and Firearms Seizure
In a major operation on Friday, the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) seized drugs and firearms worth over €2 million. The bust was carried out as part of Operation Tara, targeting organized crime activity.
The operation began when personnel from the GNDOCB intercepted two vehicles in the Finglas area of Dublin. Subsequently, planned searches were conducted at addresses in Ashbourne, Kilkenny, Waterford, and Tallaght, with the assistance of the Garda Dog Unit and personnel from local drug units.
During the searches, law enforcement officials recovered three Glock handguns, a replica handgun, 28.5 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately €2 million, and one kilogram of cannabis herb worth approximately €20,000. Additionally, a hydraulic drugs press, mixing agents, drug paraphernalia, €18,000 in cash, and various communication devices were seized.
All the drugs seized will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis.
As a result of the operation, four males aged 55, 32, 27, and 22 were arrested for drug trafficking. They were detained at Garda stations in Dublin and Meath under the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996.
Commenting on the operation, Assistant Commissioner Justin Kelly, who oversees organized crime investigations, highlighted the connection between illegal firearms and the drug trade. He emphasized that these weapons are used by organized criminal groups for intimidation, harm, and even murder. Suppressing access to illegal firearms is a top priority for An Garda Síochána.
Assistant Commissioner Kelly praised the officers involved in the operation for their commitment to protecting communities, despite the dangers they face.
This significant drug and firearms seizure demonstrates the determination of law enforcement to disrupt and dismantle organized crime networks. The swift action taken by the Gardaí sends a strong message that such criminal activity will not be tolerated.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to gather further evidence and identify any possible connections to wider criminal networks.
The impact of this seizure on the availability and distribution of drugs and firearms will undoubtedly be significant. Communities can take comfort in the fact that An Garda Síochána continues to work tirelessly to keep them safe from the detrimental effects of illicit activities.
Overall, this operation serves as a reminder of the constant efforts being made to combat organized crime and demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect society from the dangers posed by the illicit drug trade and illegal firearms.
