Revenue Seize €255,000 Worth of Contraband in Major Week-Long Operation

Revenue officers have dealt a significant blow to smuggling operations across Ireland, seizing contraband worth almost €255,000 during intelligence-led operations over the past week.

The multi-location sweep, which ran from 26th May 2025, targeted Dublin, the Midlands, and Rosslare Europort, uncovering a substantial haul of illegal goods destined for addresses nationwide, including Cork.

Detective dogs Ciara, Enzo, and Sam proved their worth once again, helping officers examine suspicious parcels that had travelled from as far afield as the USA, Thailand, and the Netherlands. The operation's crown jewel was nearly 5.8kg of herbal cannabis valued at almost €110,000, alongside 3,250 assorted tablets worth approximately €6,500.

The tobacco seizures alone represent a substantial hit to smuggling profits, with over 82,000 cigarettes worth almost €74,000 confiscated. This haul would have cost the Exchequer €58,400 in lost revenue. Officers also seized 1.25kg of rolling tobacco valued at €1,100, representing a further €828 loss to the public purse.

Adding insult to injury for counterfeiters, 342 fake goods worth over €59,000 were seized after rights holders confirmed intellectual property violations. A smaller seizure of alcohol worth almost €1,345 rounded out the week's impressive tally.

The parcels intercepted during the operation had originated from eight different countries including the UK, India, Canada, and France, highlighting the international nature of modern smuggling operations.

Revenue's ongoing battle against the shadow economy continues to protect both legitimate businesses and consumers across Ireland. The authority reminds the public that information about smuggling activities can be reported confidentially on 1800 295 295.

All investigations remain ongoing as officers work to trace the networks behind these substantial shipments.