The Criminal Assets Bureau has carried out a number of searches across counties Meath, Cavan and Monaghan as part of an investigation into ATM thefts.

Ten locations were searched; four residential properties, two yards with sheds and four professional premises, including a solicitors' office and an estate agents.

During the course of the searches officers seized a 162-registered vehicle, a laptop, and financial documentation relating to the ownership of assets.

A working fuel laundering plant was also discovered and a quantity of illicit cigarettes were seized.

CAB said evidence of offences relating to waste management was also obtained.

It said the operation marks a significant development in the CAB operation, which has been shadowing the criminal investigation being conducted by local gardaí in Meath, Cavan and Monaghan.

The investigation relates to cash, vehicles and real estate property that may represent the proceeds of crime.

More than 30 ATMs have been targeted in robberies on both sides of the border this year. Just three weeks ago, gardaí foiled an ATM theft in Virginia, Co Cavan.



