The searches were in the south and east of the country(Image: Getty Images)

Gardai seize €100,000 in international terror probe amid searches in south and east

Searches were carried out this morning

by · Irish Mirror

Gardaí have seized more than €100,000 in cash – as part of a probe into people in Ireland funding an Islamic terror group abroad.

The Irish Mirror has established that anti-terror gardaí seized the cash in multiple denominations in a series of searches this morning. At least one of the searches was in rural Co Kerry – while others took place in the east of the country.

Detectives from the Special Detective Unit carried out the raids this morning – and were backed up by officers from the Garda National Immigration Bureau, as well as local gardaí.

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It is understood three foreign nationals are the focus of the investigation – and are suspected of raising money here for it to be sent to an Islamic radical group in the middle east. It is an offence to raise money for terror groups here – and anyone convicted can be jailed for up to 20 years.

Gardaí said they were liaising with Europe as part of the probe.

A spokesman said: “Gardaí today, 18th October 2024, have carried out a number searches of 3 private residences in the Garda Southern Region and Eastern Region as part of an investigation into suspected Terrorist Financing offences contrary to the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act, 2005.

“The searches were led by the Special Detective Unit (SDU), supported by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) and local Garda resources.

“The investigation is part of and being supported by International Law Enforcement and Europol. In excess of €100,000 cash in various currencies has been seized, along with electronic devices and documentation.

“The GNIB is investigating the residency status of those involved, who are non-Irish nationals. This is an evidence gathering phase of the investigation. No arrests were made in today’s operation.”

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