Gardaí from Dublin city centre, primarily Store Street and Pearse Street Garda Stations have for some time been engaged in an operation (Operation Hawkeye) against an organised gang.
Out of the 12 people arrested in relation to Operation 'Hawkeye' 10 appeared before Dublin District Court on the 28/3/08.
8 of these 10 were released on their own bail and the other 2 (1 male and 1 female) were remanded in custody.
All 10 had been charged with various theft offences.
The remaining 2 who have not appeared in court yet will do so this morning.
They are both male and will appear before Dublin District Court number 44 on the 29/3/08 at 10.30am.
Garda Press Office
Gardaí from Dublin city centre, primarily Store Street and Pearse Street Garda Stations have for some time been engaged in an operation (Operation Hawkeye) against an organised gang who have committed a variety of crimes in the city centre over the last number of months.
The gang specialise in ‘distraction’ thefts at ATM machines, pubs & clubs, whereby the victim is distracted by some ruse and in the ensuing confusion property is stolen from them.
As part of this investigation, shortly after 5.30a.m. on the 28th March, Gardai from Store Street and Pearse Street supported by officers from the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) and accompanied by interpreters, conducted searches of six residences in Tallaght and the North Circular Road areas.
As this stage a total of twelve persons (nine men and three women) have been arrested and are currently detained at Store Street, Pearse Street, Harcourt Terrace and the Bridewell Garda Stations under the provisions of Section 4 of The Criminal Justice Act.
Those arrested are aged from between 16 years and mid 40’s and all of Romanian origin.
Valuable assistance was provided to this operation and this mornings activities by the Romanian Police Liaison Officer based in Dublin.
In excess of €30,000 worth of property was seized during the searches, which included mobile phones, cameras, clothing, cash, etc.
The investigation is ongoing and you will be advised of developments as they arise.
Note - people should be particularly vigilant regarding their property when in public areas, particularly while using ATM machines or socialising in pubs, clubs, coffee shops, etc.
Garda Press Office
