Mob boss Daniel Kinahan ARRESTED in Dubai months after being spotted at MMA fight as cartel leader faces extradition
GANGLAND boss Daniel Kinahan has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates – just months after he was snapped at an MMA fight with his mobster dad Christy.
The 48-year-old Dubliner was lifted on Wednesday on foot of an arrest warrant which was issued by the Irish courts.
Authorities in Dubai said they moved on the Irish fugitive – who has resided there since 2017 – for his alleged role in an international organised crime network.
A garda spokesman confirmed that the arrest is in accordance with the extradition treaty between Ireland and the UAE.
He added: “The arrest of the Irish National in Dubai remains a matter for the authorities in the United Arab Emirates at this time.
“An Garda Siochana has been steadfast in our determination that we would pursue those allegedly involved in serious Organised Criminal activity, wherever they go.
“Today’s arrest is another extremely important demonstration of the need for international law enforcement cooperation in tackling transnational organised crime.
“An Garda Siochana has developed many major international partnerships in our efforts to target transnational organised crime groups.
“Our relationship with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Justice at judicial level, and on a police-to-police basis, is valued.
“This relationship has been supported by the Irish Government Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and Department of Foreign Affairs.”
In a statement from the Government of Dubai, it said: “Dubai Police, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Interior, have arrested an Irish fugitive for his alleged role in an international organised crime network. The arrest comes as part of efforts to combat cross-border crime.
“The arrest followed the receipt of a judicial file from Irish authorities detailing the suspect’s alleged crimes and his involvement in an international criminal organisation. Based on the file, Dubai Public Prosecution issued an arrest warrant to initiate legal procedures ahead of his extradition.
“Specialised teams immediately launched intensive search and surveillance operations, leading to the suspect’s capture within 48 hours of the warrant being issued. Dubai Police confirmed that the arrest took place on 15 April, reflecting the force’s rapid response and operational readiness in handling international cases.
“Dubai Police further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting global efforts to combat organised crime and pursuing internationally wanted individuals. They also highlighted the importance of close cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide to enhance security, strengthen partnerships, and ensure safer communities.”
A reward of $5million each for information leading to the financial disruption of the Kinahan group or their arrests and/or convictions has been in place by the American government since 2022.
And the arrest of the mob leader comes just months after he and his on-the-run dad Christy were snapped enjoying a MMA event in a rare public sighting
The cartel lords were snapped at the 971 Fighting Championship, held in Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on June 14, 2025.
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It was the first image circulated of the thugs since the Americans put the bounty on their heads.
The Kinahans are believed to be constantly moving between several properties they own, including one in the Palm enclave — an area that was hit by an Iranian missile.
The duo, along with Christopher Kinahan Jr, had moved from Spain to the UAE after the attempt on Daniel’s life at the Regency Hotel shooting in February 2016, with Christy having since set up several businesses and Daniel having settled down and gotten married.
But this latest development could see Kinahan returned to Ireland to face charges, with Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan welcoming the arrest.
In a statement, he said: “Today’s arrest follows my request to the UAE for extradition of this individual to face charges in Ireland.
“In recent years, the UAE and Ireland have worked closely together to advance criminal investigations into serious and organised crime, including the agreement of bilateral treaties on extradition and mutual legal assistance in 2025.
“I have spoken today with my UAE counterpart Minister of Justice, His Excellency Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, to express my thanks and to acknowledge the strong judicial co-operation in criminal matters between Ireland and the UAE.
“I would like to commend all involved in today’s development, which is the result of tireless work by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, officials in the Department of Justice with their UAE counterparts, the Department of Foreign Affairs and other agencies.”
