6 men have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in organised crime. 

It follows a number of planned searches in the South Kilkenny/Waterford area early this morning.

Gardai say a number of items were seized during the operation.

The men range in age from being in their late 20s to their early 40s.

They are being held at a number of garda stations under section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act.

The operation was launched from Thomastown Garda Station early today and a number of items were seized during the operation.

Garda say investigations are continuing.