Cannabis with an estimated street value of half a million euro has been seized by Gardai in Co. Monaghan this evening.

As part of a planned operation targeting the sale and supply of controlled drugs in the Monaghan area Gardai from Carrickmacross, supported by the Regional Support Unit carried out a search of a business unit on the outskirts of Castleblayney this evening.

During the search a grow house was discovered and cannabis plants (pending analysis) with an estimated street value of up to €500,000 seized. The location has been sealed off for a technical examination.

Two women, were arrested at the scene and are currently being detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act at Carrickmacross Garda Station.