Volkswagen Golf seized in drugs crackdown transformed into official garda vehicle

The flashy blue and yellow vehicle is the newest car in the Garda Roads Policing fleet.

A garda spokesperson revealed: “This Volkswagen Golf 2.0litre, 295 bhp, 4wd car is a rescue car. An Garda Síochána seized it during an operation that uncovered large volumes of illegal drugs and unexplained cash destined to cause harm in our society.

“This patrol car is now used for road safety education to help keep people safe. Cars bring great enjoyment and freedom to live our lives.”

It comes as gardaí launched Operation Nexus, a project to support engagement with motoring enthusiasts with the aim of improving road safety and reducing road deaths.

Gardaí are opening engagement with car enthusiasts, in particular young male drivers.

Gardaí will carry out modifications to the car and are looking for suggestions. Any work carried out will be “within legal limits.”

“For safety reasons, there are regulations about what level of modifications can be made to cars beyond factory specifications”, a garda spokesperson said.

In carrying out the modifications, “An Garda Síochána will provide information on the modifications and what are the legal considerations.

“These information notes will be published on the Operation Nexus webpage on the Garda website and can be accessed by scanning interactive QR codes on the car with any smartphone.”

The launch of Operation Nexus took place after the Donegal Rally Ceremonial and drivers’ briefing on Friday in Letterkenny.

It was attended by senior members of An Garda Síochána, Motorsport Ireland, Donegal Motor Club and Drivers/ Teams taking part in the Donegal Rally 2024.

The car will be around Donegal and elsewhere from this weekend.