I am informed by the Garda authorities that the initiative referred to was implemented under Operation ‘Clean-street', which is an initiative undertaken by the Garda National Drugs Unit, in conjunction with District and Divisional Garda Management, to target individuals involved in on-street sale and supply of drugs in the community.
This phase of the operation, which took place in the Coolock Garda District, resulted in the arrest of 40 persons who have been charged with over 120 offences contrary to Section 15, Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977/1984, relating to the sale and supply of drugs, primarily heroin and cocaine and are currently before the courts. Drugs, cash and ammunition were also seized during searches conducted during the arrest phase of this initiative.
The monetary value of drugs seized during this initiative would be small, with street-deals, worth between €20-€80, being purchased by undercover officers. While this operation has now concluded, the targeting of the on-street sale, supply and distribution of drugs remains ongoing in conjunction with District and Divisional Officers.