By AML Intelligence Correspondents
Ireland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have taken a major step forward in their joint efforts to combat organized crime with the signing of two critical agreements aimed at enhancing legal cooperation.
Ireland’s Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD, and UAE Justice Minister, His Excellency Abdullah Bin Sultan Bin Awad Al Nuaimi, formalized the treaties today (Monday) during a meeting in Abu Dhabi.
These landmark agreements, focused on Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA), are designed to streamline cooperation between both countries’ judicial authorities.
They will enable more effective collaboration in criminal investigations, prosecutions, and proceedings, providing a robust legal foundation to combat transnational organized crime.
In particular, the agreements pave the way for Ireland to seek the extradition of leaders of the Kinahan Cartel who are based in Dubai.
The three leaders of the mob (below) have US$5million bounties on their heads for drug trafficking and links to the Iran regime and Hezbollah.
Moreover, the agreements now pave the way for other EU Member States to seek criminal justice pacts with the EU.
Department of Justice – LinkedIn
Speaking after the signing, Minister McEntee emphasized the significance of the agreements. “Organized crime is a global challenge that requires strong, coordinated international efforts. These treaties are a critical step in strengthening the legal framework necessary to tackle these threats and ensure criminals face justice, regardless of borders.”
The formalisation of these treaties comes after two years of heightened collaboration between Ireland and the UAE on combatting transnational organized crime, which has included joint initiatives and intelligence sharing. The new agreements will ensure that the processes for extradition and legal assistance are structured, simplified, and aligned with international standards, while maintaining essential safeguards.
For the UAE, Minister Al Nuaimi underscored the value of having a sound legal basis for international cooperation in criminal matters. “These agreements reflect our shared commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that our judicial authorities are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to the growing threat of organised crime,” he said.
The agreements signal a deepening of the relationship between Ireland and the UAE in the global fight against organised crime, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to international law and justice. The treaties will provide a clear pathway for closer cooperation on criminal matters, including the extradition of suspects and the exchange of critical legal information.
As the threat of transnational crime continues to evolve, Ireland and the UAE said they have sent a clear message that they are united in their efforts to confront these challenges and safeguard their citizens.
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