THREE people have been arrested and nearly €400,000 has been seized as part of a major Garda investigation into incidents of money laundering here.
Gardaí from the Limerick County Community Engagement Functional Area supported by members from the Limerick Crime Functional Area, Regional and National Units conducted a search and arrest operation in Rathkeale this morning.
Eleven locations were searched under warrant as part of ongoing investigations into incidents of money laundering in the region.
As a result, approximately €400,000 has been seized across multiple bank accounts and in cash.
A significant number of other items were also seized, which will be subject to further technical and forensic examination.
A woman arrested in connection with the investigation is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in the Southern Region.
Two men were arrested on foot of court orders and appeared before Newcastle West District Court this morning.
Speaking about the operation, Superintendent Michael Fleming, Limerick County Community Engagement said: “Today’s operation targets the activities of a number of individuals who are involved in serious criminality on a transnational basis.”
“The key element that today’s operation is focusing on is the area of money laundering and illicit gains from criminal activity which has taken place internationally and is being brought to bear in this jurisdiction. An Garda Síochána are committed to reassuring the community that we are aware of the activity of these individuals and we are committed to taking action.”