Explosive new details as suspects who masterminded €31m coke shipment seized in Cork ‘key members' of Scots-based mob
Investigators from the
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A Scottish crime gang masterminded the shipment of cocaine worth €31m into Ireland
Credit: Garda Press Office Handout
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The haul was transported to the suspects in a mothership before being seized by cops in Cork
Credit: Garda Press Office Handout
As the investigation continues into
One, 39, is based in the Highlands in
Another, 40, is from the Pollock area of
All four are being held on suspicion of their involvement in this year's biggest seizure of
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One source said: 'These suspects are considered to be important cogs of this organised crime group.
'The Scottish-based gangs are heavily involved in transnational drug trafficking but this smuggling route is now dismantled.
'All four are very experienced and this was a very professional drug smuggling operation.
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'Crime gangs are deliberately targeting fishermen and others who are corrupted by money and greed.
'There is no doubt that these individuals were critical enablers for this criminal organisation.'
FOUR ARRESTED
The four were arrested after a major operation - which started with a surveillance investigation over the weekend - in Co
Two of the suspects were lifted as they left in a van with the huge haul of drugs.
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The other two tried to escape on a rib but were caught by the Naval Service and later formally arrested by Gardai.
Investigators believe the haul was destined for the UK and
The four suspects can be held for a week before being released or charged.
As part of the major Joint Task Force investigation, Gardai also worked with Revenue, the Air Corps and Naval Service.
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Gardai and Customs also continue to monitor the Irish coastline as part of their efforts to stop the cartels from targeting Ireland with bulk shipments of cocaine.
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The haul is this year's biggest seizure of drugs
Credit: Gardaí
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