Horse-trafficking investigation spans several counties amid fears food chain compromised

Eight searches were carried out in the Republic in recent days as part of a Europe -wide investigation into the trafficking of horses.

Europol said some of the animals may have been diverted into the food chain without their true origin and history being known, “undermining” the traceability systems designed to protect animal welfare and food safety.

Investigators are working to establish the final destination of the animals as investigations are ongoing and seized evidence is under analysis. More than 1,000 horses were checked.

The Department of Agriculture has been approached for comment on whether any of the animals may have entered the Irish food chain.

An Garda Síochána said investigations are ongoing into a criminal network suspected of trafficking horses across Europe, with searches taking place in six counties.