The alleged head of the Kinahan cartel arrested in Dubai after years on the run
The alleged head of the Kinahan cartel arrested in Dubai after years on the run

An Irish national suspected of leading one of the most influential international organized crime cartels has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates, Emirati and Irish authorities announced Friday. According to several media outlets, he is Daniel Kinahan, a key figure in the Dubai-based criminal network.

In a statement, Dubai police confirmed the arrest of an individual identified as "DJK," without disclosing his full name. Local authorities described the arrest as that of a fugitive involved with an internationally active organized crime group.

The Kinahan cartel is accused by US and European authorities of carrying out large-scale criminal activities, including drug trafficking and money laundering. The Dubai government stated that this arrest was part of ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and apprehend internationally wanted individuals.

According to Irish police, the man was arrested on the basis of a warrant issued by Irish courts for serious organized crime offenses. The arrest took place less than 48 hours after the warrant was issued, following intensive search and surveillance operations.

Already subject to US financial sanctions since 2022, Daniel Kinahan was among the most wanted figures in organized crime. Another cartel member, Sean McGovern, was arrested in Dubai in 2024 before being extradited to Ireland in 2025, illustrating the strengthening of international cooperation in the fight against this network.

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