A high-intensity Garda operation targeting a spate of robberies and hijackings along the Grand Canal Greenway in Dublin has resulted in 10 raids and the arrest of two juveniles.
The operation focused on a stretch of the greenway between Killeen Road, Dublin 10 and Grangecastle, Dublin 22, an area frequently used by walkers, runners and cyclists. Gardaí confirmed that officers attached to Serious Crime South and Community Engagement units in Clondalkin carried out a series of coordinated searches at residential properties in Ballyfermot, Clondalkin, Kilmainham and Lucan.
In a statement, Gardaí said: “Gardaí attached to Serious Crime South and Community Engagement Clondalkin conducted a high intensity policing operation along the Grand Canal Greenway between Killeen Road, Dublin 10 and Grangecastle, Dublin 22.”
During the raids, officers seized a number of items believed to be linked to recent incidents, including two electric bicycles suspected to be stolen, two e-scooters believed to have been used in robberies, and three e-bike batteries with serial numbers removed.
Gardaí also recovered electronic devices of evidential value and a bank card believed to have been stolen.
“In addition, Gardaí arrested two juveniles in connection with this investigation,” the statement confirmed, adding that both are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at Garda stations in the Dublin Metropolitan Region West.
The clampdown comes after a series of reported robberies and assaults along the greenway, particularly in areas around Clondalkin, Ballyfermot, Bluebell and Drimnagh.
Community groups have raised repeated concerns in recent weeks, with incidents involving the theft of e-bikes, personal belongings and bank cards.
Grand Canal Greenway, Ballymanagin Lane, Dublin. Source, Google Maps
The Grand Canal Greenway, managed by South Dublin County Council, is a key route for commuters and recreational users, but has long been flagged as a problem area due to opportunistic crime.
Users have previously highlighted specific pinch points, such as barrier entrances, where individuals have reportedly been ambushed.
Gardaí said their response has involved both covert and proactive patrols aimed at identifying those responsible. “In response to hi-jacking incidents of vehicles along the Grand Canal Greenway, Gardaí have been engaged in a combination of covert and proactive patrols to identify suspects,” the statement added.
The operation forms part of Operation Meacán, a broader initiative targeting the use of electric vehicles in criminal activity. Gardaí said the initiative is designed to tackle offences including drug dealing, money laundering, transporting firearms, Drug Related Intimidation (DRI) and other serious crimes.
Local representatives have welcomed the Garda action, saying it sends a strong signal to those involved in criminal activity along the canal.
Sinn Féin councillor Daithí Doolan, chair of the Local Community Safety Partnership, said: “The greenaway along the Grand Canal is a resource for everyone who lives along this canal. Cyclists, runners and walkers use the greenway every day. Unfortunately recent attacks has caused fear amongst the public.”
He added: “It is hugely important that our walkways are safe for everyone. I welcome the actions taken by Gardaí under Operation Meacán. This sends out a very clear message. Our canals must be open, safe places for all our communities.”
Doolan also urged continued cooperation between the public and Gardaí. “This action by the Gardaí will serve to improve relations with communities along the canal. I would encourage the public to report any suspicious activity to the Gardaí. It is important that today's action is built on and that the Grand Canal becomes even busier with walkers and cyclists.”
