35 people have been arrested in the past 48 hours in connection with three Garda operations targeting heroin-dealing drug gangs in Cavan, Portlaoise and Blanchardstown.

A total of 54 people will appear in court charged with over 240 offences - they range in age from 15 to 49 years.

Operations Sarto in Cavan, Nero in Portlaoise and Rhea in Blanchardstown began six months ago and focused on drug trafficking - specifically heroin.

47 men and seven women will appear before various courts this morning.