Gardai are appealing to young people not to get drawn into laundering illegal cash for gangs after a series of arrests.
A total of 30 people – 16 under 18 – are now face charges for allegedly allowing criminals to use their bank accounts to withdraw and deposit dirty money.
A Garda spokesman warned people should never authorise any individuals or groups to utilise their bank account, ATM card, or pin number, advising that there are consequences including arrests, charges and convictions for persons acting as money mules for organised crime groups.
Gardai investigating the laundering rackets under Operation Ransom say €1.5million has been stolen so far.
Of the 30 people arrested, 18 are male, 12 are female and the persons are located all over Ireland.
The youngest is just 15 and the oldest is 38. Young people are being preyed on in schools, colleges, online and via social media and are told they will receive a cut of the cash if they authorise the use of the account.
However, in many instances, the organised crime group will clear the person’s account once the ATM card or pin number has been handed over.
Instead, the youngsters face potentially being convicted under the Money Laundering and Terrorism Act and up to 14 years behind bars.
Det Supt Pat Lordan said: “I would like people to stop and think for one minute before you give your details to someone.
“If you allow them to use your bank account, you’re committing a crime.
“And because the bank has your details, it means that we do too and although it may take a while to trace, we will be coming and knocking on your door.”
