Eight tonnes of tobacco and 660,000 illicit cigarettes seized in Garda operation

Five individuals have been arrested by An Garda Síochána following the discovery of an illegal cigarette factory in Co. Louth on Monday, 3rd March, 2025.

As part of an intelligence-led operation, An Garda Síochána and Revenue officers searched a premises under warrant in Ardee, Co. Louth, and closed down an illicit commercial cigarette factory.

Approximately 8 tonnes of raw tobacco and 660,000 illicit cigarettes were discovered on-site during the operation.

Five adult males were arrested and detained at Garda stations in Co. Louth under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984.

They have since been charged and are expected to appear before a sitting of Dundalk District Court this morning Tuesday 4th March 2025 at 10.30am.