Updated 9.45pm

TWO MEN HAVE been charged after an illicit pill making factory was discovered in Celbridge, Kildare.

An industrial pill making machine, blenders and drugs in powder and pill from worth €500,000 were seized yesterday.

Source: An Garda Siochana

Gardaí say that the process of making tablets had commenced when they forced entry into the premises.

Source: An Garda Siochana

Three men were arrested at the scene.

Two of the men, aged in their 30s and 40s, are due to appear before Blanchardstown District Court tomorrow morning at 10.30 charged in connection with the discovery.

The third man has been released without charge and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Source: An Garda Siochana

Speaking after the operation, Assistant Commissioner John O’ Driscoll, who has charge of Special Crime Operations, said: “This operation provides further evidence of the extent of links between Irish based organised crime groups and the international drug trade.

“The Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) has dealt another blow to those involved in organised crime. Our effort in tackling organised crime is unrelenting and will continue as long as is necessary.”