Fishing boats raided in fraud probe
Several fishing boats and factories were today raided by gardaí as part of a crackdown on suspected fraud within the industry.
Detectives from the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NBCI) began the searches this morning in Donegal, Galway, Cork and Kerry.
The operation also included raids on homes, offices and factories in coastal towns and villages.
“These searches formed part of an investigation into alleged irregularities in the fishing industry. Enquiries are ongoing,” a garda spokesman said.
The NBCI officers, who investigate serious crime, were backed by local garda units.
Gardaí are believed to be probing fraud allegations claiming overfishing of quotas and misreporting of catches.
An earlier garda investigation into alleged irregularities within the industry and alleged collusion with Government officials began in 2004.
A file was later sent to the DPP on the matter.
