An investigation surrounding the illegal issuing of driver licences is being carried out by Dublin City Council.

Official inquiries were made to council management following revelations in the Sunday Tribune of the raudulent processing of documents to a crime syndicate, suspected of netting net €1,500 a go. The council admitted an audit was ongoing but declined to say more pending its completion.

It is understood, however, that up to 150 licences had been processed, earning a potential of €225,000.

Two female employees have admitted their role in the operation. It is also believed that despite the serious nature of the situation, gardaí have not yet been informed as internal investigations continue.

A routine audit uncovered that an unusual amount of international licenses had been swapped for Irish documents. Additional status had then been attached, allowing holders to drive more substantial vehicles, despite never having taken tests.