Four people have been arrested in Dublin in relation to an international investigation into human trafficking.
Three men, two in their 20s and one in their 30s, and a woman in her 20s, were arrested for organised crime related offences, in a coordinated day of action being conducted in cooperation with Brazilian Federal Police and Europol.
All four are currently detained in garda stations in Dublin.
Four locations were searched in Dublin city centre this morning, in conjunction with simultaneous searches taking place in Brazil.
Investigating gardaí from the Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB), along with international colleagues, are investigating human trafficking, organised prostitution, brothel keeping and other alleged organised crime related offences.
The international law enforcement operation is being supported by Europol, with officers from Europol and the Brazilian Federal Police present in Dublin during this operation.
A member of An Garda Síochána is also supporting the Brazilian Federal Police in Brazil.
The investigation team from the GNPSB is being supported by a number of units across An Garda Síochána.
Gardaí say that they understand that victims may not be in a position to make a report themselves, and that there may be opportunities to speak to a Garda at any location suitable.
An Garda Síochána have described the crimes as "heinous", and have encouraged anyone with any information in relation to suspected human trafficking or victims to contact their local garda station, or to call the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
