Daniel Kinahan arrested in Dubai

By Jonathan McCambridge, Press Association

Daniel Kinahan, alleged to be the leader of the Kinahan organised crime group, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates.

Gardaí 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.

Gardaí said the arrest is in accordance with the bilateral agreement on extradition between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai Police said the arrest took place on April 15th.

Kinahan has been named in the Irish courts as the head of one of Europe’s most prominent drug gangs.

In a statement, Dubai Police 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."