Gardaí and Revenue Commissioners are seeing a surge in drug seizures at Dublin Airport, with over three million euro worth of cocaine and cannabis confiscated in the last two weeks. Eight individuals have been arrested in connection to these seizures, highlighting Ireland’s growing problem with drug trafficking.
It is noted that South American cartels and Asian criminal groups are increasingly targeting Ireland as a market for drugs like cannabis and cocaine. Those caught smuggling drugs are often desperate individuals from poverty-stricken areas, willing to risk their lives for as little as €1,000 per trip. Some are found with up to €100,000 worth of cocaine in their bodies.
The collaboration between Irish organized crime groups and international cartels is evident in the smuggling routes being established. Revenue sniffer dogs are detecting cannabis hidden in luggage, with some suitcases containing up to €350,000 worth of drugs. The total value of drugs seized by Revenue last month alone was almost €45m, indicating a significant increase compared to previous years.