45 arrested in major Garda crackdown on drug dealing

AS part of a major crackdown on drug dealing in Dublin city, gardaí have arrested 45 people in the past two days for involvement in the sale of heroin and crack cocaine.

Units from Kevin Street, Pearse Street and Store Street have been involved in the operation and more than 150 charges have already been laid against those arrested.

The arrests follow a six month covert operation which has dismantled one of the city’s principle drug distribution networks.

Suspects at all levels of this large and organised network of heroin and crack cocaine supply chain have been charged.

The local units, working closely with the Garda National Drug Unit, are believed to have gathered evidence against significant targets, all of whom are expected to face multiple charges of drug supply.

Speaking yesterday, assistant Garda commissioner with responsibility for the Dublin Metropolitan Region, Michael Feehan, said the arrests were part of the force’s commitment to tackling drug crime in Dublin. “An Garda Síochána is committed to tackling the supply of drugs at all levels in keeping with our commitment to the National Drug Strategy. This latest operation to target drug suppliers across the Dublin region has seen local Garda drug units supported by the Garda National Drug Unit ensure a coordinated and effective approach to protecting our communities, individuals and their families from the harm and pain caused by drug use.

“By working with other agencies and utilising innovative approaches, we will continue to play our part in maintaining a safe community for everyone.”