Shebeen raided in Loch Gowna

During the search, Gardaí discovered alcohol, beer kegs and taps, cash, bar stools and other bar equipment.

An illegal shebeen operating in Loch Gowna has been broken up after gardaí raided the premises last week.

As part of Operation Navigation, the private premises was searched by officers investigating alleged breaches of liquor licencing legislation in support of current public health measures.

The premises was searched under warrant by local Gardaí attached to Arva Garda station shortly after 10pm on Friday, March 5.

During the search, Gardaí discovered alcohol, beer kegs and taps, cash, bar stools and other bar equipment.

A number of persons were also found present at the premises. These persons will all be issued with Fixed Penalty Notices for an alleged breach of Regulation 4 of the Health Act, 1947 Regulations - Restriction on the Movement of Persons.

“Enquiries are ongoing and a file will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. No arrests were made in this phase of the investigation,” a spokesperson for An Garda Siochana confirmed.

They added: “The COVID-19 Pandemic remains a public health crisis and An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to all citizens to comply with Public Health Guidelines and Regulations in order to save lives.”