Gardaí have appealed for residents in coastal areas to be alert for ‘unusual activities’.
The call followed last month’s discovery of bales containing millions of euro worth of cocaine that were washed up on the Donegal coastline.
More than 60 kilogrammes of the drug in two parcels was washed up Tramore Beach in Dunfanaghy and Ballyhiernan Beach in Fanad.
Gardaí and customs also impounded a boat at Magheraroarty Pier as part of the investigation.
“We wish again to appeal to residents in coastal communities and Islands to be
alert for ‘unusual activities’ in their areas,” said Donegal Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Paul Wallace.
“We have seen the real evidence of how our coast can be used for drug importation. We usually associate this type of activity with the southwest coast of Ireland. However, what happened here last month has brought it home to us. There is possibly more of it (cocaine shipment) about and is stuck in crevices along the coast.”
Sgt Wallace said the summer season in Donegal marks a notable increase in the maritime craft activity of all types and this activity can also be used to ’mask’ criminal activity.
“People in coastal communities know best how to spot activity by inexperienced boat users,” he added.
“For example, the boat impounded at Magheraroarty Pier was being used by people who were not of seafaring experience. The community is our eyes and eares and they would notice people on boats that are not competent.”
If residents or boat users have concerns in relation to suspicious activity, they are asked to contact their local Garda District Headquarters or use the Garda Confidential on 1800 666 111 / or Revenue Customs Drug Watch Confidential line on 1800 295 295.
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