As part of a co-ordinated operation An Garda Síochána and the Police Service of Northern Ireland carried out a large number of searches across both jurisdictions today, the 29th May 2012.
Today's operation is part of Operation Quest which focuses on securing convictions against individuals involved in organising prostitution, brothel keeping and associated offences including money laundering.
The operation which commenced at mid-day has so far resulted in the search of over 100 premises (mainly apartments, flats and houses) in the Republic of Ireland. Three people have been arrested, a man aged in his 40s and a female aged in her 20s are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at Dundrum Garda Station while a female aged in her 20s is currently detained at Store Street Garda Station also under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act. A large amount of documentation, cash, mobile phones and computers have also been seized.
The Garda operation, which involves over 200 Gardai, was led by members of the Organised Crime Unit based at the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation supported by officers from all Garda Regions.
A third phase in today’s operation is ongoing.
During the investigation to date it has been established that prostitution is organised on a cross-border basis and today’s joint operation was specifically aimed at individuals and groups intent on making profits from vulnerable members of society across the island of Ireland.
The policy of An Garda Síochána is to treat women involved as witnesses/victims unless significant evidence comes to light suggesting direct involvement in organised prostitution or brothel keeping.
Specific training has been provided to Gardai investigating this type of crime who continue to liaise closely with various support groups working in this area.
A press released has also issued from the The Police Service of Northern Ireland.
