Major Seizure of Illegal Cigarettes and Cash in Donegal
In a significant operation targeting criminal activity, Ireland’s Revenue Service, with the support of the Garda Síochána, conducted a sweeping raid in Burnfoot, County Donegal. This operation resulted in the seizure of a massive haul of illegal cigarettes, tobacco, cash, and two vehicles worth nearly €911,000 (£758,000).
Seizure Details
The operation, carried out on Wednesday and Thursday, saw the confiscation of almost 540,000 cigarettes and 12.4kg of rolling tobacco products. A total cash sum of approximately €415,000 (£345,580) was also seized, which authorities suspect is the proceeds or intended for criminal activity.
Additional items seized included a cash-counting machine, financial documentation, and mobile phones, further underlining the extent of the criminal enterprise in question.
Assistance from Law Enforcement
This operation demonstrates the collaborative effort between the Revenue Service and the Garda Síochána in targeting the illicit tobacco trade. The seizure is part of Revenue’s ongoing operations aimed at curbing the supply and sale of illegal cigarettes and tobacco, which often operate in the shadow economy.
Judicial Action
Court proceedings in Buncrana District Court resulted in a three-month cash detention order for the seized funds. This legal action underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the illegal tobacco trade and aims to prevent further illicit activities.
Appeal for Information
Gardaí have called on the public for any information that could help unravel this criminal network and bring the culprits to justice. Community involvement is crucial in combating organized crime and ensuring safety in local communities.