A South American crime gang is believed to be behind a “significant” number of illegal immigrants found working at a premises in Meath.
The Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) led a targeted multi-agency raid on a commercial premises earlier this week under Operation Camomile.
GNIB officers investigating a suspected trafficking ring were joined by officials from the Department of Social Protection and the Work Relations Commission.
Read More:Illegal workers interviewed and documentation seized after multi-agency search operation in Meath
Gardai from several national bureaus including organised crime, protective services, economic crime, cyber crime and roads policing unit were also involved.
A large number of workers, understood to be here illegally using false documentation, were questioned and paperwork and phones were seized.
A follow-up search of a private residence also took place and a number of items were seized.
Gardai said the operation was focused on identifying offences relating to the employment of illegal immigrants and formed part of a wider probe into human trafficking.
A garda spokesperson said it aimed to crack down on those facilitating illegal immigration into Ireland, rather than targeting those who are trafficked.
The spokesperson added: “In the course of the operation, a significant number of persons working at the premises were identified as being illegally present in the state and working in breach of the Employment Permits Act on the basis of fraudulent documentation.
(Image: Gareth Chaney Collins)
“All persons present were interviewed and a number of fraudulent documents were seized, along with personnel files and mobile phones.
“From intelligence obtained during the operation, a subsequent follow-up search was carried out at a nearby private residence.
“A number of items were seized including fraudulent European ID documents and electronic devices.”
The operation involved more than 40 personnel, including interpreters and document examiners.
Investigations are ongoing.
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