Seventeen people have been arrested today in a major Garda crackdown on criminal activity in Co. Carlow.

Gardaí made three significant drug seizures and seized two cars, during a series of 20 searches and traffic stops.

A number of people have appeared in court, with further hearings expected.

Gardaí say the arrests are part of Operation Thor, and are designed to disrupt criminals operating in the County.

The activities targetted by Gardaí include burglary, theft and sexual offences.

A number of arrests were made in the Dublin area.

Superintendent Gerry Redmond of Carlow Gardaí says criminals based in the capital are an issue: