The Irish police, known as Gardaí, have successfully dismantled a notorious Easter European drug cartel’s money laundering activity in Ireland, confiscating funds amounting to €1 million.
This drug syndicate, whose operations span across the entirety of Europe, plays a significant role in importing and distributing narcotics throughout Ireland. Additionally, they exploit vulnerable individuals, using them as drug mules.
Last Thursday, Gardaí managed to locate and storm a South Dublin property where they discovered the money while it was in the process of being tallied for further transference. Additionally, two presumed members of the cartel were taken into custody.
The criminal operation spans across Ireland, with their principal activity being the importation of drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and cannabis.
The bust was orchestrated by the Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB), acting on received intelligence. A residential property in Knocklyon, Dublin 15, was also searched, where authorities recovered the cash along with counting appliances and financial log books.
Two men, aged 35 and 44, were taken into custody under suspicion of enabling a criminal group to commit a serious crime as defined by the Criminal Justice Act 2006. They are currently being questioned at a Dublin-based Garda station.
Assistant Commissioner Justin Kelly, who leads Serious and Organised Crime, explained that this money seizure underlines the tremendous profits made by international crime groups. These groups continue to devastate communities.
He insisted that Gardaí are committed to disturbing drug networks to make Ireland an unwelcoming place for criminal activities. Focusing on money laundering operations is a key component of their approach as it prevents criminals from reinvesting into further unlawful practices and hits at the core of their operations.
Kelly concluded by praising the Gardaí involved in the operation for their devotion and professionalism.