Gardaí have seized a number of items as part of an investigation into the theft of overhead ESB cables in the Kildare area.

Detectives from Portlaoise and Kilkenny - along with the Eastern Regional Support Unit and local gardaí - carried out planned searches at three properties in the Leixlip area yesterday morning as part of an ongoing operation.

A number of items were seized by gardaí, and a man in his 40s was arrested.

He was brought to Portlaoise Garda Station and he was released without charge last night.

A file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Gardai say the investigation is ongoing.