Three men have been arrested in connection with human trafficking and organised crime. 

The men, aged in their 30s and 40s, are currently detained at Garda stations in Cork. 

Over 100 Gardaí were involved in a major operation this morning which included searches at five locations in Cork and two locations in Roscommon. 

The arrests are part of a major operation tackling organised crime, based in Ireland with Eastern European links. 

Human trafficking in Ireland

People who have been trafficked for labour exploitation are typically made to work in sectors such as agriculture, construction, entertainment, service industry, manufacturing and domestic servitude. 

They are most likely to be made available for work for third-party employers who often are not aware of the activities of the organised crime gangs and believe that the labour is legitimately sourced. 

Gardaí have warned human trafficking is an underground crime and therefore it can be difficult to readily identify trafficked people. 

Trafficked people can be found in different places, often linked to their type of exploitation, including urban and rural locations. 

They also, however, may be physically trapped, constantly guarded or they may feel ashamed, embarrassed or that they are somehow responsible for their exploitation. 

Gardaí have advised anyone with information to contact their local Garda station or use the anonymous tipline.