Gardaí have seized €160,000 in cash during a stop and search operation in Co Westmeath.

The cash was found concealed in a car that was stopped in the Auburn Villas area of Athlone last night.

A 21-year-old man, who was the sole occupant of the car, was arrested.

He was taken to Mullingar Garda station for questioning and he has since been released without charge.

A file is to be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.