GARDAÍ HAVE ARRESTED three men and a woman in Dublin this morning as part of a major international operation targeting an organised crime group suspected of involvement in human trafficking.

The coordinated operation, carried out in partnership with the Brazilian Federal Police and Europol, saw four locations searched in Dublin city centre.

Two of the men are in their 30s, one is in his 20s, and the woman is also in her 20s.

All four are being detained at garda stations in Dublin.

Simultaneous raids were also conducted in Brazil, where a member of An Garda Síochána is currently assisting local authorities.

Europol officers and members of the Brazilian Federal Police were also present in Dublin during today’s operation.

Gardaí say the investigation is focused on human trafficking, organised prostitution, brothel keeping, and other organised crime-related offences.

In a statement, Gardaí appealed to anyone who believes they may be a victim of human trafficking, or anyone with information about suspected cases, to come forward.

“An Garda Síochána understands that victims of these crimes may not always be in a position to make a report themselves, maybe there is opportunity to speak to a Garda who you might meet at any location.,” a spokesperson said.

They described the offences under investigation as “heinous”, and urged anyone with information to contact their local garda station.