Tje Justice Ministers of the UAE and Ireland have welcomed the extradition of suspected organuised crime boss, Daniel Kinahan.
One of the most high-profile individuals sought for prosecution in connection with transnational organised crime and is accused of directing an organised crime organisation, Daniel Kinahan is currently on board the Government jet heading for Dublin where a massive security organisation to secure his detention awaits.
H.E. Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice of the United Arab Emirates, and Jim O’Callaghan, Ireland’s Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, today welcomed the extradition of an Irish national from the UAE to Ireland.
The Irish national is regarded as one of the most high-profile individuals sought for prosecution in connection with transnational organised crime and is accused of directing an organised crime organisation.
Today’s extradition was pursuant to a formal extradition request submitted by the Irish authorities. The final decision was issued following a judgment of the Dubai Court of Cassation, in accordance with the Extradition Treaty between the United Arab Emirates and Ireland.
The Defence Force’s new Falcon 6X departed Al Maktoum International Airport at around 10.15am and is due to land at Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel later.
Once it lands on Irish soil, it is expected that the 49-year-old will be arrested before being brought to the Special Criminal Court, where he will face a charge of directing an organised crime group.
Mr Kinahan has been detained in Dubai since last April, following his arrest under a warrant issued by the Irish courts.
He lost his final appeal against his extradition from the UAE.
A large-scale security operation is planned in Dublin ahead of the expected arrival.
Accordig to RTE, the security operation will involve armed gardaí, the Defence Forces, and the Irish Prison Service, which recently purchased a bulletproof and bomb-proof escort van that can be used to move criminal gang leaders, terrorists, and other inmates deemed high-risk.
The prison service has also upgraded facilities at the maximum-security Portlaoise Prison, where Mr Kinahan is expected to be held in custody
The two Ministers affirmed that the final extradition decision in this significant case reflects the steadfast commitment of both countries to the rule of law, reinforces international judicial cooperation, and demonstrates the effectiveness of their partnership in combating transnational organised crime, particularly offences involving the leadership of organised criminal groups, murder, and drug trafficking.
They further stressed that this decision sends a clear message that suspected perpetrators of serious and organised crime will find no safe haven from justice, reaffirming the shared determination of both countries to ensure that such individuals are brought before the courts.
Minister O’Callaghan said:
“I would like to express Ireland’s deep appreciation for the support of the United Arab Emirates in handling the extradition request, and commend the professionalism, efficiency, and diligence demonstrated by the UAE judicial authorities throughout the extradition proceedings. This decision is another landmark of judicial cooperation between the two countries and reflects the strength of our partnership to address transnational organised crime.”
H.E. Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi said:
“I reaffirm the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to further strengthening judicial cooperation with Irish authorities, and continuing to enhance our judicial partnerships with the international community. This achievement reflects the UAE’s position as a trusted international partner in the field of international judicial cooperation and underscores the steadfast commitment we have to supporting global efforts to combat transnational organised crime, bring perpetrators of serious crimes to justice, and prevent them from evading accountability, thereby contributing to regional and international security and stability, and reinforcing the rule of law.”