GARDAÍ HAVE RAIDED a suspected ecstasy manufacturing plant in Kildare and have seized €500,000 worth of the drug.

Members of the Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau searched a house in Celbridge at around 2pm today.

Officers discovered the drugs as well as chemicals used to make it. Personal protective equipment was also seized.

Three foreign nationals have been arrested and are being questioned at a number of garda stations.

Gardaí said equipment including blenders and an industrial pill making machine along with suspected controlled drugs in powder and pill form were seized. Gardaí added that the process of making tablets had commenced when they forced entry into the premises.

Speaking after the operation, Assistant Commissioner John O’ Driscoll who has charge of Special Crime Operations said: “This operation provides further evidence of the extent of links between Irish based organised crime groups and the international drug trade.

“The Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) has today dealt another blow to those involved in organised crime. Our effort in tackling organised crime is unrelenting and will continue as long as is necessary.”