Gardaí have arrested two men and a woman after firearms, ammunition, drugs and a monkey were seized in Dublin.

The operation took place on Friday morning on the Ratoath Road in Finglas.

During the course of searches, they discovered a machine pistol, sub-machine gun, a .357 calibre revolver as well as 300 rounds of assorted 9mm and .357 ammunition.

Some 227 rounds of 12-gauge shotgun cartridges were also found.

Some of the guns and ammunition seized by Gardaí | Image: An Garda Síochána

Gardaí also seized cannabis with a street value of €29,500, and cocaine said to be worth €97,300.

A quantity of clothing with a value of €3,000 was also seized as part of the operation.

Some of the guns and ammunition seized by Gardaí | Image: An Garda Síochána

It is understood the monkey was found in a cage and has been taken into care.

However, both Dublin Zoo and the DSPCA have said the animal is not with them.

Image: Garda press office

Two men - one aged in his 30s and one in his 40s - were arrested at the scene and are being detained at Finglas Garda station under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act.

A woman in her 30s is being held under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has praised the "significant" operation.

He said: "I congratulate An Garda Síochána for the significant seizure of firearms, ammunition and drugs made in Finglas this morning.

"The display makes for a truly shocking sight. Lethal weapons are intended to cause injury and take life.

"Those responsible must face the full rigours of the law."