Dubai Police Arrest One of Ireland's Most Wanted Fugitive
A joint effort by UAE authorities, Interpol, and Irish police leads to the arrest of Sean McGovern.
In a major breakthrough, Dubai police have arrested Sean McGovern, one of Ireland’s most wanted fugitives, following a joint operation involving Interpol and Irish law enforcement.
McGovern, 38, was apprehended on Thursday in the UAE and faces serious charges, including involvement in a 2016 murder and leadership of the notorious Kinahan crime gang. His arrest came after an Interpol Red Notice was issued.
Major arrest: Sean McGovern, one of Ireland’s most wanted fugitives and alleged high-ranking member of the Kinahan Organized Crime Group has been arrested in the UAE on an INTERPOL #RedNotice.
— INTERPOL 🚨 #ForASaferWorld (@INTERPOL_HQ) October 11, 2024
Read more🔗➡️ https://t.co/Dc65hJ66u9 pic.twitter.com/vxdhH8b0pF
“This arrest showcases the power of international police cooperation through Interpol’s global network,” said Interpol Secretary General Jürgen Stock. “No fugitive is beyond the reach of justice.”
McGovern, who was named as a top figure in the Kinahan gang by Dublin’s Special Criminal Court earlier this year, will remain in the UAE pending extradition proceedings. His capture is a key development in the ongoing efforts to tackle transnational organized crime.
An Garda Siochana, Ireland’s national police force, praised the arrest, with Commissioner Drew Harris calling it a "significant development" in their international fight against organized crime. "This has been a long and complex investigation, strengthened by our collaboration with UAE authorities,” he added.
Ireland's Justice Minister Helen McEntee emphasized the robust cooperation between Irish and Emirati officials, noting that a Garda liaison officer stationed in Abu Dhabi has played a crucial role. "We are making progress in negotiations for extradition and mutual legal assistance treaties with the UAE," she said.
McGovern's arrest follows a European arrest warrant issued by Ireland’s High Court. He faces charges including the murder of Noel Kirwan in December 2016. The arrest also coincides with ongoing investigations into transnational drug trafficking, after a recent 2.2-ton cocaine seizure off the coast of Waterford.
The Irish government has also offered a $15 million reward and U.S. witness protection for information leading to the capture of Kinahan gang leader Daniel Kinahan.
For trending news, subscribe to Gulf Moments on Telegram!