Suspects charged following major garda operation targeting human trafficking

Two men who were arrested by gardai investigating the activities of an organised crime gang have been charged and are due to appear in court later this Thursday.

The suspects were arrested at the weekend during a major garda operation which saw searches being carried out at five locations in Co. Cork and Co. Roscommon.

Over 100 Gardaí were involved in the search operation which was led by detectives from the Divisional Protective Service Unit in Cork County. They were supported by members of the Armed Support Unit, uniformed gardai and plain clothes gardai from a number of different units.

"Gardaí are investigating the activities of an Organised Crime Group based in Ireland, with Eastern European connection, involved in the alleged trafficking of persons into Ireland for the purpose of labour exploitation. The investigation is being supported by International colleagues from Europol," said a spokesperson at the weekend.

The men have been questioned at garda stations in Co. Cork since their arrest and gardai have now confirmed that they face prosecution.

"Gardaí have charged two men, aged in their 30s and 40s, who were arrested on Saturday, March 2024 as part of an investigation into organised crime related activities. They are expected to appear before Midleton District Court (Co. Cork) this morning," said a spokesperson. 

A third man, aged in his 30s, who was also arrested and questioned has been released without charge and gardai say a file will be prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.