An Garda has taken part in an international operation to dismantle a major alleged criminal encrypted phone network.
The operation, involving nine countries, led to 51 arrests, including 11 in Ireland.
Irish law enforcement dismantled two major drug trafficking routes and seized drugs worth €16 million.
The operation involved more than 300 police officers. 11 people have been arrested arrests. An Garda has impounded €350,000 in cash.
Assistant Commissioner, Justin Kelly, says Ireland had the second-largest user base of the encrypted platform.
“During this operation, we targeted four Irish organised crime groups who are involved in drugs trafficking, frequently using violence and intimidation to enforce their illicit trade. Most significantly, we have dismantled two primary drugs trafficking routes into our country and in doing so have seized drugs with an approximate street value of €16 million.”
According to the EU’s crime agency, Europol, Ghost was an encrypted platform being used by criminal networks for drug trafficking, money laundering, and violence.
Ghost’s advanced security features allowed criminals to evade detection and coordinate illegal activities.
The operation involved law enforcement authorities from Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United States, as well as EU agencies Europol and Eurojust.
Europol’s director, Catherine De Bolle, said international collaboration was key in taking down the network. Further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.