Daniel Kinahan, alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates.
Irish police said they were aware of the arrest of a man in his late 40s, on foot of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.
The gardai said the arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and United Arab Emirates.
Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15.
Kinahan has been named in the Irish courts as the head of one of Europe’s most prominent drug gangs.
A gardai statement said the arrest of Daniel Kinahan was an “important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime”.
The statement said: “The arrest of the Irish national in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.
“An Garda Siochana has been steadfast in our determination that we would pursue those allegedly involved in serious organised criminal activity, wherever they go.
“Today’s arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement co-operation in tackling transnational organised crime.
“An Garda Siochana has developed many major international partnerships in our efforts to target transnational organised crime groups.
“Our relationship with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Justice at judicial level, and on a police-to-police basis, is valued.
“This relationship has been supported by the Irish Government Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and Department of Foreign Affairs.”
Dubai Police said they had arrested an “Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network”.
A spokesperson said: “Dubai police, in collaboration with the UAE ministry of interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network.
“The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.
“The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspect’s alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation.
“Based on the file, Dubai public prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.
“Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspect’s capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued.
“Dubai police confirmed that the arrest took place on April 15, reflecting the force’s rapid response and operational readiness in handling international cases.
“Dubai police further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting global efforts to combat organised crime and pursuing internationally wanted individuals.
“They also highlighted the importance of close cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide to enhance security, strengthen partnerships, and ensure safer communities.”
