Four held after drug seizures

ÉANNA Ó CAOLLAÍ

FOUR MEN were in custody last night following the seizure of almost €2 million worth of illegal drugs in separate Garda operations over the weekend.

The largest seizure was made in Athlone where 20kg of cocaine, with an approximate value of €1.4 million, were seized during the search of a premises on Friday night.

Five kilos of cannabis resin with an approximate value of €60,000 were also seized.

Two men, aged 43 and 42, were arrested and were being detained under the provisions of section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act at Athlone Garda station.

On Saturday afternoon, gardaí in Co Carlow seized 20kg of cannabis herb and 8kg of amphetamines worth an estimated €400,000 during the search of a house near Leighlinbridge.

A 21-year-old man was arrested and is being held at Carlow Garda station under section 2 of the Drugs Trafficking Act. He can be held for up to seven days.

A 28-year-old man was arrested in Dublin following the seizure of more than €100,000 worth of illegal drugs on Saturday.

Gardaí found 16,000 ecstasy tablets and 6oz of cocaine, which they said was worth in excess of €100,000, during the search of a house at North Frederick Street in the city.

Garda values placed on drug seizures are approximate and are subject to forensic analysis.