Key Figure in Irish Criminal Network Apprehended in Dubai
An individual believed to be Daniel Kinahan, who is reportedly a prominent figure in one of Ireland’s most significant criminal organizations, has been detained in Dubai, according to reports from Irish media outlets.
The Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police service, confirmed that a man from Ireland, aged in his late 40s, was taken into custody on Wednesday. The arrest was made under a warrant issued by Irish courts, citing alleged involvement in serious organized crime activities.
The Garda Síochána expressed their unwavering commitment to pursuing individuals allegedly engaged in severe organized criminal activities, irrespective of their location.
Dubai Police also announced the apprehension of an “Irish fugitive” believed to be involved in an international organized crime syndicate. Although the police did not disclose the name, Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTE, verified that Kinahan was indeed the person arrested.
Previously, the High Court in Dublin identified Kinahan, who resides in the United Arab Emirates, as a leading member of a crime group involved in global drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
Since 2015, a conflict between the Kinahan cartel and the rival Hutch gang has resulted in 18 fatalities in Ireland. Notably, in 2016, David Byrne, linked to the Kinahan cartel, was murdered at a boxing weigh-in at Dublin’s Regency Hotel, where Kinahan was allegedly the intended target.
Kinahan relocated to Spain and subsequently to Dubai.
Co-founding MTK Global, a boxing management firm, Kinahan has been associated with former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. He has attempted to arrange matches for Fury, including a highly anticipated bout with Anthony Joshua that ultimately did not occur.
In 2022, a $5 million reward was offered by the U.S. for information leading to the financial dismantling of the Kinahan crime organization or the capture and conviction of its leaders.
