Two arrested following significant drugs seizure as gardai target transnational crime gang

Two men are being questioned by gardai following a significant heroin seizure during a pre-planned operation in Dublin targeting organised crime.

Gardai say as part of ongoing investigations targeting transnational and Dublin based organised crime gangs, they seized approximately €3 million worth of heroin during an operation on Friday. 

"Garda members from the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau intercepted and searched a vehicle in the Coolock area. During this search approximately 21 kilos of suspected heroin was seized," said a garda spokesperson who added that the drugs have been submitted to the Forensic Science Ireland for examination and analysis. 

One man, aged in his 30s, was arrested at the scene and another man, aged in his 40s, was arrested at a different location following additional enquiries. 

Gardai say both men are currently detained at a garda station in north Dublin under the provisions of Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007.

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Commenting on the operation Assistant Commissioner for Organised and Serious Crime, Angela Willis said: "The sale and supply of heroin has an especially harmful impact, and not only destroys people’s own lives but leaves a lasting affect on entire communities in Ireland and elsewhere. 

"Disrupting heroin trafficking remains a central focus of our work and we will continue to target the criminal organisations that operate at a global level with the intention of impacting the lives of ordinary people all over this country.”

Subject to court orders, the men who are currently in custody can be detained without charge for up to seven days.