Daniel Kinahan arrested in the United Arab Emirates
Daniel Kinahan, the alleged leader of the Kinahan organized crime group, was arrested in the United Arab Emirates.
Irish police say they are aware that a man in his late 40s has been arrested on a warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organized crime offences.
Gardai said the arrest was in line with the bilateral agreement between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates on extradition.
Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15.
Kinahan has been named in Irish courts as the head of one of Europe’s most prominent drug gangs.
In a statement, Gardai said the arrest of Daniel Kinahan was “an important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement cooperation in the fight against international organized crime”.
The statement said: “The arrest of the Irish citizen in Dubai currently remains a matter for authorities in the United Arab Emirates.
“Garda Siochana were steadfast in our determination that we would pursue individuals alleged to be involved in serious organized criminal activity wherever they went.
“Today’s arrest is an extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement cooperation in the fight against transnational organized crime.
“An Garda Siochana has developed many important international partnerships in our efforts to target transnational organized crime groups.
“Our relationships with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Justice at the judicial level and police inter-police are valuable.
“This relationship is supported by the Irish Government Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Immigration and the Department of Foreign Affairs.”
Dubai Police said they arrested an Irish fugitive “for his alleged role in an international organized crime network.”
A spokesman said: “Dubai police, in collaboration with the UAE interior ministry, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organized crime network.
“The arrest took place as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.
“The arrest follows the receipt from Irish authorities of a criminal file detailing the suspect’s alleged crimes and involvement in an international criminal organisation.
“Based on the file, the Dubai prosecutor’s office issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures before his extradition.
“Specialist teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations and ensured the capture of the suspect within 48 hours of the issuance of the arrest warrant.
“Dubai police confirmed that the arrest took place on April 15, reflecting the force’s rapid response and operational preparedness in handling international cases.
“Dubai police reaffirmed its commitment to supporting global efforts to fight organized crime and track down internationally wanted persons.
“They also emphasized the importance of close collaboration with law enforcement agencies around the world to improve security, strengthen partnerships and ensure safer communities.”
