18KG of khat, the leafy green plant considered a stimulant with effects similar to that of amphetamine when chewed, has been seized from a private home in Limerick this Tuesday following a joint operation between Gardai and Revenue officials.
In three similar but separate operations cigarettes and tobacco with a total value of approximately €50,000 were also seized.
In a garda operation, that included a controlled delivery to a private residence in Limerick city this Tuesday, Revenue seized 18kg of khat with an estimated street value of €36,000 as part of a joint operation with An Garda Síochána.
Two non-Irish nationals were arrested and taken to Henry Street Garda Station.
Investigations are ongoing.
In two separate intelligence-led operations in Dublin this Tuesday, officers from Revenue’s Customs Service seized approximately 20,000 cigarettes and 10kgs of tobacco with an approximate retail value of €14,000 and potential loss to the Exchequer of €12,000.
The ‘Dorchester’, ‘Golden Eagle’, ‘Mayfair’, ‘Palace’, ‘Excellence’ and ‘Samson’ brand tobacco products were seized from private dwellings in the North Inner City.
Investigations are continuing with a view to prosecution.
This seizure is part of Revenue’s on-going operations targeting the supply and sale of illegal cigarettes.
If businesses or members of the public have any information regarding the smuggling or sale of illegal cigarettes or tobacco, they can contact Revenue in confidence on free phone number 1800 295 295.
