These treaties, negotiated since last year, are expected to aid in the extradition of Sean McGovern, a senior member of Ireland's Kinahan crime group. McGovern, wanted for charges including murder and directing an organized crime group, was arrested by Dubai police following an Interpol Red Notice.
The Kinahan gang, Ireland's most powerful crime organization, is believed to have key leaders based in the UAE. McGovern was previously labeled as "one of Ireland's most wanted fugitives" by Interpol.
McEntee received approval from the Irish government to sign the treaties, which now require final approval from the Dáil (lower house of the Irish parliament). Once ratified, the treaties will be enacted.
McEntee emphasized that the agreements demonstrate that organized criminals cannot escape justice by crossing borders. She said, "There is no hiding place for those involved in organized crime; justice will be served." She hailed the treaties as the result of extensive engagement with UAE authorities and a significant step toward combating international crime and drug trafficking networks.
