Issue Date: 5th July 2022
An Garda Síochána participated in an EMPACT (European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats) joint-action operation against human trafficking between 6th and 13th June 2022. The operation was implemented alongside participating European law enforcement authorities, Europol and Interpol.
Between 6th and 13th June, Gardaí attached to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB), and the Border Management Unit (BMU) at Dublin Airport conducted 264 inspections on targeted flights and ferries at Dublin Airport, Cork Airport, Dublin Port and Rosslare Port, along with additional checks on buses between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
During the course of the operation, one case of concern was identified at Dublin Airport. A female suspect was arrested on suspicion of committing an offence contrary to Section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Smuggling of Persons) Act 2021. Following a period of detention, the suspect was released without charge. The matter remains under investigation.
