Gardaí and Revenue have confirmed €157 million worth of drugs have been seized.
More than 2 tonnes of cocaine were found on a cargo ship apprehended during a multi-agency operation off Cork.
It amounts to the largest drugs haul in the history of the State.
Gerry Harrahill from Revenue Customs, confirming the details following a dramatic few days:
"I can say the weight of cocaine involved was 2,253 kilograms and the value is €157 million."
The cargo ship, the MV Matthew, which left South America last month with a crew of about 25, is now docked in Cork Harbour after control was seized by members of the Army Ranger Wing yesterday.
Photos from the military of the operation that lead to the seizure of the MV Matthew.
Statement confirms the LE WB Yeats fired "warning shots."
Rangers "fast rope insertion to secure it."
A "significant" amount of "suspected drugs" found on board. pic.twitter.com/TzETg2RIXV
— Tom Douglas (@TomDouglas95) September 26, 2023
Those operating the ship are described as part of a “murderous cartel”, with Assistant Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly says the extremely complex multi-agency operation comes as a significant hit for international drug gangs:
"It shows out un-relenting determination to disrupt and dismantle networks which are determined to bring drugs into our country."
Catch of the Day! 🎣#KeepingPeopleSafe pic.twitter.com/1FckErEoKK
— Garda Info (@gardainfo) September 27, 2023
Trawler
Meanwhile, a fishing trawler, associated with this mothership, remains stranded off the coast of Wexford, after it came to the attention of emergency services on Sunday.
Three men remain in garda custody in Wexford, who will be central to the investigation as it continues.
CONFIRMED: €157m worth of cocaine seized in cargo ship off Cork coast - in what was the largest haul in the history of the State.
Over 2,000 kgs seized on the MV Matthew, with a crew of about 25.
Now docked in Cork Harbour, while fishing trawler remains stranded off Wexford. pic.twitter.com/xPb6t0KiAm
— Ellen Butler (@LN_but) September 27, 2023
