So-called "distraction thefts" have risen significantly in the North inner city in recent weeks. Such crimes usually involve one offender distracting the victim, often by asking for help, while a second steals their belongings.
Gardaí believe a professionally organised criminal gang is responsible for a majority of such crimes in Dublin city centre.
One individual has been identified as a key figure in the operation by members of the Crime Prevention Unit at Store Street station. Said person is currently in custody for unrelated matters. The suspect was released from prison just last month and was arrested after being found to be involved in thefts in the city. They admitted to being involved in several incidents of theft. Gardaí are currently attempting to establish the identities of their accomplices, with a file being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The gardaí operation involves a combination of uniform and undercover officers working in the city centre to target the pickpockets.
"This incident is an example of An Garda Síochána’s relentless commitment and dedication to identifying on a daily basis those involved in pickpocketing in Dublin City and establishing where such offences are part of organised crime," said Dublin Commissioner Anne Marie Cagney. "An Garda Síochána will continue to effectively tackle these individuals and organised gangs intent on targeting vulnerable members of the public in this crime type."
