LIVE: Revenue seizes thousands of e-bikes and e-scooters worth millions in Wexford raids
Searches part of operation targeting the illegal importation of e-bikes
A number of individuals are assisting Revenue officers following a major operation targeting the illegal importation of e-bikes into Ireland.
Revenue has confirmed that more than 4,000 e-bikes and a small number of e-scooters, were seized during searches of two separate locations in Wexford as part of the ongoing investigation.
A spokesperson said the estimated potential retail value of the seizure is €4.5 million which represents a potential loss to the Exchequer of €2.3 million in import duties.
"As part of an ongoing investigation Revenue officers searched, under warrant, two warehouses at separate locations in the Wexford area discovering a significant number of e-bikes and a small number of e-Scooters. Ancillary items and spare parts were also discovered. These e-bikes and e-scooters are believed to have been destined for sale on both the national market and the wider EU market," they said.
Revenue says it is working with OLAF (the European Anti-Fraud Office) in this investigation, to protect the EU's financial interests against what is believed to be part of an international smuggling operation being conducted across the EU.
"These seizures are part of Revenue's ongoing campaign targeting the illegal importation of products into the State and the wider European Union. If businesses, or members of the public, have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295," said the spokesperson.