Gardaí are urging consumers not to buy alcohol from unlicensed suppliers.

It comes after two men armed with iron bars stole thousands of cases of spirits from a warehouse in Ballyfermot in Dublin last month, and made their getaway in two 40 foot trucks.

The men forced the employees to open the loading bay, while at least three more men arrived and tied up the employees..

Some 2,580 cases of Jameson Whiskey, along with vast cases of Bombay Sapphire Gin and Jack Daniel's Whiskey were taken in the raid on the Parkwest industrial Estate on Friday November 14th between 4pm and 4:30pm.

An image of one of the vehicles used |  Image: Garda press office

Gardaí believe the stolen alcohol will be offered for sale in the run up to Christmas and they are asking the public to contact them if they are offered spirits from anyone other than licensed suppliers of alcohol.

They are also appealing for information in relation to the two tractor units and the 40 foot containers used.

Any sightings or any person who may have leased or hired out the tractor units - or anyone who has information about the crime - are asked to contact Ballyfermot garda station on 01-666722 or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800-666-111.