Vol. 526 No. 1
95 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the garda raids on a number of premises as part of an investigation into bogus aircraft parts; if the garda investigation has been completed; if a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25754/00]
On 5 October 2000, the Garda Síochána in response to a mutual assistance request from the United States authorities executed a number of search warrants under the Forgery Acts at Shannon Industrial Estate and in the Limerick area.
The searches resulted in the seizure of a large amount of property some of which was handed over to the US authorities. Other items, not deemed relevant to the investigation, were returned to the persons from whom they were seized.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the operation is not yet complete. As the case is still at the investigative stage, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to go into the details of the operation.
