More than 30 arrested in major garda operation targeting criminal activity in Rathkeale
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A total of 33 people were arrested in the town of Rathkeale in Limerick on Thursday as part of a major garda operation targeting criminal activity and anti-social behavior in the area.
More than 20 gardaí from Limerick County Community Engagement and Limerick Crime Functional Areas, supported by the Limerick Divisional Roads Policing Unit and the Department of Social Protection were involved in a "day of action" in the town.
Over the course of the intelligence-led operation, 30 were arrested on foot of outstanding bench warrants, two were arrested in connection with ongoing criminal investigations, and the final individual was arrested for road traffic offences.
Aside from the arrests, gardaí also say they conducted 12 "multi-agency checkpoints" in the area, resulting in one person being caught driving under the influence of drugs. Officers also executed "multiple searches under the Misuse of Drugs Act" and seized one vehicle under the Road Traffic Act.
A garda spokesperson said all of the individuals arrested were brought before a sitting of Newcastle West District Court.
Superintendent Michael Fleming of the Limerick County Community Engagement Functional Area said Thursday's operation targeted "recidivist criminals and persons wanted on warrant".
Supt Fleming said that a key element of the operation was enforcement of road safety and "a significant number of drivers were engaged with".
"Christmas is a special time of year and I hope all road users will drive with care over the festive period, obey posted speed limits and never drive while intoxicated," he added.