‘Massive’ consignment of drugs believed to be on cargo ship in Foynes Port

David Raleigh

A security operation involving customs officials and gardaí is under way at Foynes Port, Co Limerick, after the discovery of a massive consignment of suspected drugs on board a cargo ship.

The cargo bulk carrier docked at the port town earlier on Tuesday, sparking a response by Revenue, supported by gardaí.

The 20,000 tonne vessel is believed to have been carrying grain.

A reliable security source said it appeared that a “significant” volume of suspected drugs had been discovered.

Senior Garda sources said it was “very much a live operation” and one that was “being led by Revenue”.

A Revenue spokesman confirmed it was “undertaking a live operation”, but would not disclose any details.

“No further comment is available at this time,” the spokesman added.

A garda spokeswoman said it was a matter for Revenue.