27 detained in metal theft investigation

Gardaí have said they arrested 27 people for questioning as part of a pan-European operation about metal theft last month.

Over 70 premises were searched in Wicklow, Dublin and Cavan as part of an operation co-ordinated by Europol.

Gardaí attached to the Organised Crime Unit recovered over 1000 stolen beer kegs.

The 27 people were arrested for a variety of offences including burglary and theft as well as breaches of Road Traffic acts.

This operation, on May 21 and 22, was conducted with the co-operation of the Metal Theft Forum, local authorities and other interested stake holders with responsibility for enforcing the legislation in this area.