E-bikes, scramblers and quads seized as 40 properties searched
ELECTRIC motorbikes, scramblers, e-scooters and quad bikes were among a number of items seized by gardai during a day of action which saw 40 properties searched on Thursday,
The day of action was conducted by the DMR South and DMR West Divisions of An Garda Siochana, with the operation targeting electric motorbikes suspected of being used in criminal activity.
In December 2023, Operation Meacan commenced in DMR South and is being led by the Divisional Serious Crime Unit with support from the Community Engagement Unit and Community Policing Unit in Tallaght and the Divisional Roads Policing Unit.
According to gardai, the aim of Operation Meacan is to tackle the use of electric motorbikes which are being used for criminal activity including drug dealing, money laundering, transporting firearms, drug related intimidation and other serious offences.
“These electric motorbikes are often driven on footpaths, parks and laneways in order to avoid detection by An Garda Siochana”, a Garda statement said.
During Thursday’s day of action, 19 search teams, comprising of 120 members of An Garda Síochána, searched 40 properties.
According to gardai, 10 Surron electric motorbikes, with values ranging from €4k to €10k, were seized, 12 motorbikes and scramblers, 12 electric bicycles and e-scooters, three quad bikes and one jet ski and trailer (valued at approximately €10k).
Gardai said that €42,950 in cash was also seized, €8,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis, five designer watches, including one Tag Heuer and four Rolex, and designer goods valued at around €25,000.
Two persons were also arrested during the course of the operation for the purpose of executing outstanding bench warrants, gardai confirmed.
“Since the commencement of Operation Meacan in December 2023 a total of 53 electric motorbikes with a combined value of approximately €300,000 have been seized”, a garda statement said.
“Over €80,000 in cash which is understood to be the proceeds of criminal activity has also been seized by gardai.”
Specialist units from An Garda Síochána assisted in the Day of Action including the Armed Support Unit, the National Dog Unit, the Dublin Crime Response Team and Special Tactics and Operational Command.
Investigations are ongoing.
