Daniel Kinahan, 49, alleged head of the Kinahan Organised Crime Group, was extradited from Dubai to Ireland on August 9, 2026, to face criminal charges [1, 2, 3]. Kinahan was arrested in Dubai in April 2026 after living openly there for about 10 years [1, 3].

The extradition followed a ruling by the UAE Dubai Court of Cassation and was carried out under the UAE–Ireland extradition treaty. Kinahan was flown aboard an Irish government jet, landing at a military airport near Dublin before being taken to the Special Criminal Court [1, 3]. A large security operation involving armed police, military, and prison officials secured his arrival and court appearance [2, 3].

Irish and Emirati authorities issued a joint statement calling Kinahan “one of the most wanted individuals in cases related to transnational organised crime.” The statement added he is accused of leading a criminal network involved in murder, narcotics trafficking, and money laundering, based on an official Irish request [1].

Kinahan faces multiple charges in Ireland including directing organised crime with links to a violent gang war since 2016 in Ireland and Spain. The conflict has resulted in numerous deaths, including innocent bystanders [1, 2]. The U.S. named him a top leader of the Kinahan gang in 2022 and offered a $5 million reward for information leading to his arrest [1, 3].

Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, speaking alongside UAE counterpart Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, said the extradition ‘‘sent a clear message that those suspected of serious and organised crime would find no safe haven from justice’’ [3].

After his court hearing on August 9, Kinahan is expected to be held at Portlaoise Prison awaiting further proceedings [1, 2, 3].