Drugs

Garda National Drugs Unit

The Garda National Drugs Unit (GNDU) is a specialist agency that investigates domestic and international drug trafficking. Its remit also includes strategically reducing the demand for drugs in conjunction with Government agencies.  

The GNDU was established in 1995. It is headed by a Chief Superintendent reporting to Assistant Commissioner, National Support Services.  

The GNDU focuses on dismantling organised drug networks involved in large scale importation and distribution. In recent years the Unit has been highly successful both in seizing large volumes of controlled drugs and in securing convictions against those involved.  

The Unit plays an integral role in the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy which was launched in September 2009. The strategy has 4 elements:-

• Reduction of supply
• Prevention
• Treatment
• Research

Some 100 individual actions were identified under these 4 elements, involving a number of different departments and agencies. The National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 is available at www.hrb.ie/ndc

Nationwide each region has dedicated Garda personnel committed to policing drug misuse. Please contact your local Garda Station if you would like to pass on information about drug misuse. 

Every district in Dublin city has a local drug unit that tackles the sale and distribution of controlled drugs at a local level. To find out which drug unit covers your area, please contact your local Garda Station.  

Also, if you have any information that could help gardaí in combating drug dealers please ring the Garda Confidential Line Freephone on 1800 666111 or ring GNDU on +353 1 6669900.  

Recognising drug taking and further help