Three men have been arrested in Co Cork by gardaí in relation to an investigation into human trafficking.
Gardaí searched five locations in Co Cork and two locations in Co Roscommon today.
Three men, in their 30s and 40s, were arrested and a number of items were seized during the searches.
The men are currently being detained in garda stations in Co Cork under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007.
Over 100 gardaí were involved in the searches, including detectives from a number of national units.
Gardaí are investigating the activities of an organised crime group based in Ireland, with an eastern European connection, involved in the alleged trafficking of people into Ireland for the purpose of labour exploitation. The investigation is being supported by international staff from Europol.
An Garda Síochána is appealing to anyone who may be the victim of human trafficking or labour exploitation to speak to a member of gardaí, either at a local garda station or to call the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111.
Gardaí are also appealing to anyone who suspects that a person may be the victim of human trafficking to speak up - either at their local garda station, on the Garda Confidential line at 1800 666 111, or to any member of An Garda Síochána.
