Inside ‘speedy’ operation to arrest alleged mob boss Daniel Kinahan as cops make dramatic swoop
The suspected crime boss and boxing promoter Daniel Kinahan was arrested in the UAE after a joint operation involving Irish authorities
Kinahan is suspected to have been the boss of the so-called Kinahan cartel(Image: Supplied)
Suspected mob boss and Irish boxing promoter Daniel Kinahan has been arrested in Dubai after a joint operation involving both the Irish and United Arab Emirates authorities.
Kinahan is thought to be the leader of the so-called Kinahan cartel, a powerful, international criminal gang suspected of being involved in the smuggling of drugs and guns. The 48-year-old has been living in Dubai for the past decade, but was apprehended on April 15.
Dubai police descended on Kinahan’s home following days of constant surveillance, according to reports in the Irish Mirror, after the Irish courts issued a warrant for his arrest. Sources described the operation as “rapid”, with local police being supported by officers from Ireland.
Irish authorities reportedly submitted a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions in the UAE, recommending that Kinahan be charged with ‘directing a criminal organisation’.
The arrest comes after back and forth engagement between Ireland and the UAE, with Kinahan’s home country desperate to place the suspected mob boss on trial for his alleged crimes.
He is currently in custody in Dubai and is expected to appear before a UAE court for extradition proceedings. While both Ireland and UAE are reportedly keen for the suspected mob boss to be returned to his home country, Kinahan will have the option to challenge extradition.
While extradition appeals can be lengthy, the prosecution is reportedly hopeful that it may be accelerated as a result of a recent treaty signed between the two countries.
A spokesperson from the Irish Police did not initially name Kinahan, but said that a man in his late 40s was arrested on the strength of an arrest warrant issued by the Irish Courts in relation to alleged serious organised crime offences.
The statement read: “The arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.
“The arrest of the Irish National in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.
“An Garda Síochána 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 Síochána 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 also confirmed that the arrest been carried out in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Interior.
They said: “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 further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting global efforts to combat organised crime and pursuing internationally wanted individuals.”
Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan said he had spoken with his UAE counterpart following the arrest.
“Today’s arrest follows my request to the UAE for extradition of this individual to face charges in Ireland.
“In recent years, the UAE and Ireland have worked closely together to advance criminal investigations into serious and organised crime, including the agreement of bilateral treaties on extradition and mutual legal assistance in 2025.
“I have spoken today with my UAE counterpart Minister of Justice, His Excellency Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, to express my thanks and to acknowledge the strong judicial cooperation in criminal matters between Ireland and the UAE.
“I would like to commend all involved in today’s development, which is the result of tireless work by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, officials in the Department of Justice with their UAE counterparts, the Department of Foreign Affairs and other agencies.”
If extradited and convicted, Kinahan could face life imprisonment. His return to Ireland is likely to see him escorted by armed police.
