Gardaí Seize Over 60 Scramblers, E-Bikes, Drugs and Weapons in West Dublin Raids
Dublin, Ireland – Gardaí (Irish police) conducted a large-scale operation targeting the sale and supply of controlled drugs and related criminal activity in Finglas, Cabra, and Blanchardstown, West Dublin, on Friday, February 20, 2026. The operation, dubbed Operation Meacán, resulted in the seizure of over 60 scramblers, e-scooters, e-bikes, and quad bikes, as well as significant quantities of drugs, cash, and weapons.
Operation Meacán: A Coordinated Day of Action
Eighteen residential properties were searched during the coordinated day of action. Gardaí seized €20,720 worth of controlled drugs, including:
- €16,020 worth of cannabis
- €1,000 worth of alprazolam tablets
- €3,500 worth of crack cocaine
In addition to the drugs, authorities recovered quantities of cash and a number of weapons, including katana swords and other bladed weapons. Dublin Live reports that a man in his 20s was arrested and has since been charged, with a court appearance pending.
Vehicle Seizures
The vehicle seizures included a substantial number of motorized vehicles:
- 29 scramblers
- 21 e-scooters
- 3 e-bikes
- 3 quad bikes
- 1 mini-motorcycle
RTÉ and The Irish Times confirmed these figures.
Broader Context and Upcoming Regulations
The operation comes amid increased scrutiny of scrambler use following the tragic death of 16-year-old Grace Lynch in Finglas last month, who was fatally injured after being hit by one of the bikes. Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien met with Lynch’s parents to discuss new laws governing scrambler use. The Irish Times reports that regulations banning the use of scramblers in public places are expected to be introduced within “a matter of weeks,” potentially as early as March.
Ongoing Efforts
Earlier in the week, Gardaí seized 44 illegal bikes and scramblers in a similar operation in Ballymun, demonstrating a continued effort to address the issue. All seized drugs will undergo analysis. The operation involved Gardaí from DMR West Crime North and Blanchardstown Community Engagement.
The Journal also reported on the seizures.