The Minister for Justice, Heather Humphreys TD, has welcomed the very significant volume of drugs seizures made by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) in the period from 1 January to 30 April 2021. 

The total drugs seized by the GNDOCB in the first 4 months of the year is valued at €28.2m. This represents an increase of 392% over the same period last year, when drugs valued at €5.7m were seized. In addition, approximately €3.8m in cash has been seized in the same period, an increase of 183% over the same period in 2020, when €1.3m was seized. 

Minister Humphreys said: 

“Tackling serious crime is a key priority for the Government and I very much welcome the exceptional work which has been undertaken the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau so far this year. This vital work is having significant success in disrupting drug trafficking and the supply of illicit drugs by organised crime groups. 

“In addition to these very significant seizures by the national unit, Divisional Drugs Units nationwide and all Gardaí working in local communities have continued to target this form of crime throughout the pandemic, including continued local work against street level drug dealing. An Garda Síochána also continue to work closely and productively with international law enforcement partners. 

“I can assure communities throughout the country that both the Government and An Garda Síochána will continue to take strong steps to ensure serious and violent crime is tackled and that our communities are kept safe.”