Gardai have raided premises in Letterkenny as part of a two day nationwide operation targeting organised prostitution.
The searches follow a six month long investigation by the Organised Crime Unit into the activities of a criminal group involved in organised prostitution, brothel keeping and other associated criminal activity.
The operation was conducted in close co-operation with Europol as part of an initiative targeting mobile organised crime groups active throughout Europe.
Since Thursday morning gardai have searched total of 22 premises, which include apartments, flats and houses in Letterkenny and a number of other locations around the country including , Dundalk, Clonmel, Waterford, Cavan, Mullingar, Limerick, Ballina, Ennis, Newbridge and Cork along with 11 locations in the Dublin area.
More than 60 Gardaí were involved including members of Organised Crime Unit, local detective units and uniformed Gardaí.
Gardai say the purpose of the search operation was to gather evidence in order to advance the investigation. Evidence of suspected prostitution activity was detected at a number these locations. During the searches Gardaí seized documentation, mobile phones, computers and money.
A number of women present at these locations were interviewed by Gardaí and have been offered support and advice.
No arrests were made in Donegal.
Speaking to Highland Radio News, Inspector Pat O’Donnell says more legislation is in the pipe line to clamp down on prostitution:
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