Clare gardai seize large amount of illegal fireworks during searches of several properties

Investigations are ongoing following the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal fireworks during searches of several properties in west Clare.

The searches, which were led by the Clare Divisional Crime Task Force and the Kilrush Detective Office, took place over two days - last Friday and on Wednesday.

Gardai from Kilrush Community Engagement, Ennis and Shannon Crime Units also provided assistance as did members from several regional units, including the Garda Dog Unit.

The operation was launched in direct response to the sale and supply of illegally held fireworks in the Kilkee and Kilrush areas.

In total, five premises were searched, resulting in fireworks to the value of €700 being seized. A total of 37 packages were seized, some containing a number of fireworks.

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The fireworks seized included 'Bad Boy TNT', 'Bad Boy Thunder' and 'SKYBOLT Rockets'. 

"This operation was conducted in response to an increase in anti-social behaviour involving the use of fireworks and complaints from members of the public," said a garda spokesperson.

The searches formed part of Operation Tombola which sees An Garda Síochána work with partners and stakeholders to increase understanding on the harm fireworks may cause as Halloween approaches, while also highlighting the legislation which prevents the possession of unlicensed fireworks.