Working closely with local retailers and business groups across south-east Dublin, gardaí have maintained efforts to identify suspects, initiate prosecutions and bring offenders before the courts.

The operation has included the establishment of a dedicated unit.

As part of phase one of Operation Táirge in DMR East, 41 individuals are expected to appear before Dún Laoghaire District Court to face a range of charges relating to retail theft and associated offences.

In addition, 15 children have been arrested, with proceedings initiated through the Youth Diversion Programme.

Chief Superintendent David Kennedy of DMR East said An Garda Síochána will “continue to focus on retail crime using intelligence-led policing to disrupt criminal networks, prevent thefts, and, importantly, support local retailers and businesses”.

Phase two of the initiative is due to commence in the coming weeks.

Investigations are ongoing.