They were stopped by the Armed Support Unit in Laois last night.
Three men have been arrested following the recovery of a large amount of stolen property in Laois.
The men were travelling in a van, which was stopped by member of the Garda Armed Support Unit on the M7 at Ballydavis, Portlaoise (between Junction 17 & 16 eastbound) last night.
A quadbike, chainsaw and strimmer were recovered, along with a trailed being towed behind, containing a power washer.
The owner of the property has since been identified.
Three men, all aged in their 30s, were arrested at the scene and detained at Portlaoise and Kildare Garda Stations, as per Section 4 Criminal Justice Act 1984.
They continue to be questioned.
The operation was part of the Winter Phase of the Gardaí's Operation Thor.
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