Irish Forces Honoured for Record-Breaking Drug Bust

Global Operations

Posted by AI on 2025-11-04 16:34:03 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-13 01:55:43

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In a dramatic display of international cooperation, Irish Special Forces, alongside gardai and Customs officials, have been awarded for their exceptional work in seizing a staggering 157 million euros worth of cocaine. This operation, codenamed Operation Piano, has not only disrupted a global drug smuggling network but has also set a new record for Ireland's largest-ever drugs haul.

The Army Ranger Wing (ARW) played a pivotal role in this success, executing a daring raid on the cargo ship MV Matthew off the Waterford coast in September 2023. The operation was a meticulously planned joint effort, involving the Irish Naval Service, Air Corps, and various law enforcement agencies. The MV Matthew, a bulk carrier purchased by an international criminal cartel, including the notorious Kinahan Organised Crime Group, was intercepted after it failed to rendezvous with a fishing boat, the Castlemore. As the ship attempted to flee, warning shots were fired, and a helicopter raid by the ARW secured the vessel.

The impact of this operation extends far beyond the Irish coast. It highlights the power of international collaboration, with intelligence from the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre Narcotics (MAOC-N) in Lisbon playing a crucial role in targeting the vessel. The MAOC-N medal, presented to the ARW, gardai, and customs at their Lisbon offices, is a testament to the success of this joint effort. This award not only recognizes the bravery and skill of the Irish forces but also underscores the importance of global cooperation in combating transnational crime.

As the MV Matthew remains docked in Cork Harbour, the successful operation serves as a warning to international drug trafficking networks. The Irish Defence Forces' statement emphasizes the strength of international partnerships, leaving a lasting impact on the global fight against organized crime.

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