Growing security fears as plans for Daniel Kinahan Ireland arrival begin
Prison authorities are already drawing up contingency plans for Daniel Kinahan's potential arrival on Irish soil within the coming weeks.We've leared that prison governors and senior figures within the Irish Prison Service are preparing to convene discussions about arrangements for the high-profile prisoner - who could arrive within days should he choose not to contest his extradition from the United Arab Emirates. The dramatic news of Kinahan's, 48, arrest in Dubai last Friday generated international headlines - but has also prompted authorities here to begin planning the substantial security operation that will be required.It is understood IPS officials will hold a meeting to examine all available options concerning Kinahan's arrival - and determine the most suitable location for him - when he is expected to be remanded in custody following an appearance before the Special Criminal Court. Sources indicate Kinahan will most probably be transferred to Portlaoise Prison in Co Laois - where fellow right-hand man Sean McGovern is currently held under the country's highest security protocols, reports the Irish Mirror.However, during the coming days and weeks, prison officials alongside gardai will conduct assessments of all potential risks to Kinahan and staff members before his arrival. There are worries that individuals aligned with the Kinahan cartel might create disturbances within the prison system ahead of his transfer - while those with sympathies towards the Hutch faction could present a danger.While the Kinahan Hutch feud is widely thought to have subsided, there are worries that hostilities could reignite within prison walls. Intelligence suggests preparations must begin immediately, as Kinahan could arrive swiftly - should he choose not to contest extradition.Even if he does challenge it, sources indicate the proceedings are anticipated to move faster due to an extradition treaty now established between this country and the UAE. Currently, the alleged leader of the Kinahan cartel remains detained at Dubai Central Jail - otherwise known as Al Awir Central Jail.Former prisoners and human rights organisations have condemned the conditions within the facility. British national Karl Williams endured a year in the notorious prison during 2012.He documented his experiences in a memoir, describing witnessing fatal stabbings. Kinahan faces charges here for directing a criminal organisation - an offence carrying a potential life sentence upon conviction.Gardai are understood to have carefully examined numerous encrypted communications in which Kinahan is believed to have orchestrated murder plots throughout the feud. The crime boss is suspected of involvement in the conspiracy to kill Hutch associate James 'Mago' Gately in 2017 - along with the murder of Eddie Hutch at Dublin's Poplar Row in February 2016.His father Christy and brother Christopher are believed to remain in Dubai. Neither individual is currently under pursuit by gardai, raising fears that both men may now attempt to flee the country.Last year, Kinahan lieutenant Sean McGovern made history as the first person to be extradited from the UAE to Ireland, following the landmark 2024 treaty between the two nations. In March, McGovern entered a guilty plea at the Special Criminal Court for directing a criminal organisation.The 39-year-old, formerly residing at Kildare Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12, admitted to directing the activities of a criminal organisation between October 20 and December 22, 2016, both dates inclusive, both within and outside the State, in connection with the murder of Christopher, also known as Noel Kirwan.McGovern further admitted to directing the activities of a criminal organisation between October 17, 2015 and April 6, 2017, both dates inclusive, both within and outside the State, relating to the surveillance of James Gately in preparation for the commission of an indictable offence. His sentencing is scheduled for April 27.Want to see more of the stories you love from Dublin Live? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives, top stories and must-read content straight away. To add Dublin Live as a preferred source, simply click here.Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content.We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice .
