Ireland Becoming Organised Crime Hub

A new document from a centralised European police force has revealed Ireland is slowly becoming a 'hub' for European organised crime.

In a document entitled the 'EU Organised Crime Threat Assessment' by the European policing force, Europol, Ireland has been identified as one of the most attractive destinations for international organised crime members.

Due to its geographical location, as a go between for Europe and the Americas, as well as a range of other factors, Europol believes members of drugs cartels are flocking to Irish shores to cash in on the Island's favourable conditions.

One of the major attractions was the amount of illegal immigrants, which were easily exploited by organised crime syndicates.

The document said: "The UK and Ireland are highly attractive destinations for illegal immigrants and organised crime groups who facilitate illegal immigration.

"Both countries are favourite destinations because of a flourishing economy and consequent demand for workers, particularly in low skilled sectors, and the image of easy access to health, welfare and education systems."

The document also pointed out that Nigerian organised crime groups for generations present in amongst others the UK and The Netherlands and responsible for various forms of fraud are now also being discovered in Ireland.

Europol also believes Ireland’s high levels of taxation provides opportunities for smuggling, as tax-less mark downs have a more pronounced effect on price.

The group went on to explain Ireland's off-mainland status in the 'North West hub' was a geographical refuge for criminals, yet still allowed ease of movement around Europe.

"The North-West hub will continue to be a major drugs supplier for the Benelux (Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg) countries.

"Its influence extends to the Nordic countries, especially with reference to cocaine and cannabis products, and further for synthetic drugs," the document said.

(DW)