More than 50 due in court following Garda drugs operation

Heroin supply networks targeted in Cavan, Portlaoise and Blanchardstown

54 people will be brought before the courts on Thursday morning in connection with a series of anti-drug trafficking operations by gardaí. Photograph: Bryan O’Brien/The Irish Times

Thirty-five people have been arrested in the past two days as part of an undercover Garda operation against drug networks in Cavan Town, Portlaoise and Blanchardstown.

These operations targeted criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, with specific emphasis on the supply networks involved in heroin dealing.

Arrangements have been made to bring 54 individuals (47 men and seven women aged between 15 and 49) before the courts on Thursday morning, charged with about 240 drugs offences.

The covert operations began about six months ago in response to growing public concern over drug misuse in local communities.

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“Operation Sarto” was conducted in Cavan Town and 19 individuals are being brought before Cavan District Court.

“Operation Nero” was conducted in Portlaoise and 16 individuals are being brought before Portlaoise District Court.

“Operation Rhea” was conducted in Blanchardstown in west Dublin and a further 19 individuals are being brought before Blanchardstown District Court.