As part of an ongoing investigation targeting organised criminal groups involved in the provision and distribution of firearms, Gardaí from the Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau supported by National Units, including the Emergency Response Unit, carried out an operation in Co. Meath this evening (24/3/2016).
This operation resulted in the seizure of a number of firearms and ammunition (subject to ballistic examination) and the arrest of three males.
Two assault rifles and several hundred rounds of ammunition were seized when Gardaí stopped two vehicles in the Ratoath area. In a follow up phase of the operation two semi automatic pistols, silencers and further quantities of ammunition were discovered as part of the operation also in Ratoath.
Three males (30s) have been arrested and are currently detained under Section 30 of the Offences against the State Act, 1939 at Ashbourne and Kells Garda Stations.
The operation is ongoing and updates will follow.
