Charity under Garda investigation has Mullingar outlet

A charity at the centre of a Garda investigation into suspected money laundering operates a retail outlet on Dominick Street in Mullingar.

Liberty Recycling describes itself as a social enterprise supporting people affected by drug use by providing stability, work experience, skills and confidence to help them move into mainstream employment.

The Dublin-based organisation, which recycles donated clothing and other goods, operates outlets in several counties across Ireland.

Detectives from the Garda Money Laundering Investigation Unit recently carried out a series of searches at premises associated with the charity in Dublin and parts of the east and south-east of the country.

The investigation centres on suspicions that proceeds from donated goods may have been laundered for private gain.

During the searches, Gardaí seized two BMW X5 vehicles reportedly worth approximately €250,000, along with luxury items including Louis Vuitton handbags, Rolex watches and jewellery valued at an estimated €40,000.

The investigation is being conducted in conjunction with the Charities Regulator, which is understood to have alerted Gardaí to suspected discrepancies relating to the organisation’s charitable activities.

The Garda investigation into the Dublin-based charity, which has a nationwide presence, has been ongoing for some time and remains active.

No findings of wrongdoing have been established, and the investigation concerns allegations that remain subject to the Garda inquiry.