Gardaí investigates after people ‘flee’ suspected of shebeen in Limerick

Gardaí is investigating the operation of a suspected “shebeen” in Rathkeale, Co Limerick, after several people were found socializing there on New Year’s Day.

Gardaí was conducting patrols in the city at 4 pm Friday and was alerted to activity in the back of a former licensed premises.

“While further investigations were being conducted, several people were seen fleeing the area, through private housing, on foot,” said a Garda spokeswoman.

“Gardaí entered the premises and discovered several individuals socializing inside with large amounts of alcohol, playing cards with two open fires lit. The place does not have a license to sell alcohol. “

Pictures published by An Garda Síochána show a bar with an open fire and bottles and cans scattered around the premises.

Gardaí took details of all the people present and investigations have been initiated into the use of the facilities without a license for alcohol consumption and the non-compliance with the Covid-19 public health regulations.

A file will be prepared and sent to the Director of the Public Ministry (DPP) for his direction.

Adare-Rathkeale has one of the highest Covid-19 incidence rates in the country, with a 14-day incidence rate of 660.4 per 100,000, as of December 28. A total of 183 cases of coronavirus were reported between December 15 and 28.

Gardaí in Newcastle West is calling on anyone who may have information on the operation of this venue to contact them on 069 20048 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

In November, Garda sources said demand for places to meet and socialize would increase during Christmas and New Years as the “wet bars” were not open, but said Operation Navigation, which targets trade license violations, it would intensify.