Man, 40s, arrested in operation targeting gang stealing from shops for last four years

Gardaí say the gang have carried out multiple thefts from retail outlets across the country between July 2020 and February of this year. File Picture: PA

Gardaí have arrested a man as part of an ongoing investigation targeting an Eastern European crime gang which has been stealing from retail outlets for the last four years. 

Officers attached to the Clare/Tipperary Division arrested the man in his 40s, on Monday.

According to gardaí, the gang have carried out multiple thefts from retail outlets across the country between July 2020 and February of this year. 

The thefts primarily involved premium alcohol and spirits with an estimated potential loss to the retailers in excess of €30,000.

Gangs involved in organised retail crime typically target specific retailers and steal significant quantities of good before attempting to resell them on the black market. 

Often, the gangs will recruit others to carry out the thefts. 

Gardaí say this type of crime can also involve refund fraud with the purpose of making a financial or material benefit. 

The man arrested on Monday is currently held under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act at a Garda station in the Clare/Tipperary Division.

A garda spokesperson said investigations ongoing.