Gardaí are investigating after a suspected shebeen was searched in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick on New Year's Day afternoon.

Following on from the discovery of a suspected shebeen in Co. Kildare on New Year's Eve, Gardaí have now launched an investigation after searching a former pub in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick on New Year's Day afternoon. In a post on Facebook today, An Garda Síochána (Cork, Kerry and Limerick - Southern Region) wrote that 'Gardaí are investigating a breach of Covid-19 public health regulations and the following the discovery of a suspected shebeen in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick yesterday.' RTÉ reports that 'during routine patrols at around 4pm in Rathkeale, Gardaí were alerted to activity at the rear of a former pub' and that 'a number of people were seen leaving the area on foot through a house.' A file now is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions and Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information to contact Newcastlewest Garda Station on 069 20048 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. READ NEXT: Cold weather to continue with 'sharp to severe frosts' and a 'dusting of snow' on the way