Corrupt Crew Earn €200K to Drop Cocaine Off Irish Coast, Garda Say

URGENT UPDATE: Corrupt crew members aboard legitimate cargo ships are reportedly earning up to €200,000 to offload cocaine in the waters off the coast of Ireland, law enforcement officials have confirmed. Detective Chief Superintendent Seamus Boland, head of the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB), revealed these alarming details in an exclusive interview, highlighting a significant shift in the tactics used by drug smuggling gangs.

The alarming trend indicates that organized crime groups from the Middle East, Europe, and South America are collaborating with Irish criminals to exploit Ireland as a strategic drop-off point for large drug shipments. Boland noted that this method has become increasingly prevalent since 2023, with numerous large-scale drug drops reported along the south and west coasts.

Gangs have moved from traditional importation methods through container ports to conducting offshore operations, a tactical evolution prompted by heightened law enforcement efforts that have successfully seized substantial drug quantities at ports. “The ships don’t have to stop,” Boland explained, as drugs are dropped into the sea using flotation devices and beacons, awaiting collection by fast boats known as Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBs).

This method allows for seamless operations, enabling corrupt crew members to engage in repeated voyages and earn substantial profits. Boland revealed that these individuals could potentially make multiples of €200,000 per trip, indicating the lucrative nature of their involvement in drug trafficking.

Since April 2023, authorities have reported 18 major drug seizures, including significant quantities of crystal meth and cocaine from various operations. These successful intercepts are largely the result of intelligence shared between the Garda and customs officials, leading to multiple arrests and charges for individuals involved in drug-related crimes.

Despite these successes, Boland cautioned that the fight against drug smuggling is complex and often relies on luck and timely resource allocation. He stressed the necessity for public vigilance, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities along the coastlines to aid law enforcement in addressing this growing issue.

The implications of these developments extend beyond Irish borders, as Boland emphasized the international nature of the drug trade. Collaboration with foreign law enforcement agencies, particularly in the Netherlands, has been critical in combating these operations. The Garda are actively working with Dutch officials to address the challenges posed by the evolving smuggling methods.

Boland also pointed out that the issue of corrupt crew members is not isolated to Ireland; it is a widespread problem affecting many European nations. Countries such as Spain, France, Portugal, and Denmark are experiencing similar challenges, with the UK facing even greater problems due to its larger population and drug market.

With this urgent situation developing, authorities continue to adapt their strategies to counteract the ever-evolving tactics of drug cartels. The GNDOCB is working closely with shipping companies to address the issue of corruption and improve security measures.

In this ongoing battle against organized crime, public awareness and cooperation remain vital. Boland reiterated the importance of community involvement, stating that information from vigilant citizens has proven instrumental in several successful law enforcement operations.

As the situation unfolds, the Garda and international partners remain committed to dismantling these networks and ensuring the safety and security of Irish waters. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue.