REVENUE HAVE TODAY seized cigarettes, tobacco and a plant stimulant with a total value of approximately €50,000 in three operations in Dublin and Limerick.

Following a controlled delivery to a private residence in Limerick city today, some 18kg of khat – a leafy plant with similar effects to amphetamines when chewed – was seized. The amount seized has an estimated street value of €36,000. Gardaí arrested two non-Irish nationals who were taken to Henry Street Garda Station and investigations are ongoing.

In two separate operations in Dublin this morning, customs officers also seized 20,000 cigarettes and 10kgs of tobacco with an approcimate retail value of €14,000 and potential loss to the Exchequer of €12,000.

The ‘Dorchester’, ‘Golden Eagle’, ‘Mayfair’, ‘Palace’, ‘Excellence’ and ‘Samson’ brand tobacco products were seized from private dwellings in the north inner city. Investigations are continuing with a view to prosecution.

Revenue said the seizure is part of its on-going operations targeting the supply and sale of illegal cigarettes.

Businesses an members of the public with any information regarding the smuggling or sale of illegal cigarettes or tobacco, are asked to contact Revenue in confidence on free phone number 1800 295 295.

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