'A day of action': 44 people arrested in multi-agency Limerick operation 

Thirty officers from various divisions carried out the massive operation which took place in Abbeyfeale in conjunction with Customs and Revenue, Department of Social Protection, Road Safety Authority and county council

Eight checkpoints were conducted leading to six vehicles being seized. Picture: Gardaí

More than 40 people have been arrested following a multi-agency "day of action" in Limerick on Tuesday. 

Some 30 members from Abbeyfeale Garda Station, Limerick County Community Engagement Area, the Limerick Crime Functional Area, the Divisional Roads Policing Unit, Regional Armed Support Unit and the Kerry Division carried out searches, arrested persons wanted on bench warrants and conducted checkpoints and patrols in Abbeyfeale.

As a result of the operation, 44 people were arrested on foot of outstanding bench warrants and brought before the Newcastle West District Court.

Eight checkpoints were conducted, leading to six vehicles being seized for various offences, including failure to stop and dangerous driving.

Two people were arrested on suspicion of drug-driving, while three people were arrested for road traffic offences. 

Additionally, two domestic residences were searched under warrant and a small quantity of cannabis herb was seized.

Speaking about the operation, Superintendent Mike Fleming said: "This is our fourth day of action across the Limerick County Community Engagement area following similar operations in Newcastle West, Rathkeale and Kilmallock over the last couple of months.

Two people were arrested on suspicion of drug-driving. Picture: Gardaí

"Today's operation was immensely successful as can be seen by the results and I am to compliment wholeheartedly my colleagues and those who joined us from other agencies in today's operation.

"Our key goal is to respond to the needs of communities in tackling varying issues such as anti-social behavior, road safety and compliance with various legislation. 

Inspector Gearóid Thompson, who led the operation, said: ”Days like this do not happen by accident and there is much in the way of planning and logistics to go into making these days successful. 

"I am also thankful to the Court Services, who assisted our efforts in supplying staff to meet the increased demand placed on the Newcastle West District Court with the 44 persons arrested and brought before the court today at short notice".