high-ranking Longford crime gang boss arrested on suspicion of money laundering

A senior figure from a Longford based organised crime gang has been arrested by Criminal Assets Bureau officers on suspicion of alleged money laundering offences.

The man, who is in his forties and well known to gardaí, was arrested earlier this week as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected organised crime in Longford.

The suspect is part of a well established crime family who have, in the past, previously been the target of CAB investigators.

A high ranking member from the same crime faction was arrested by CAB last May on suspicion of deception and money laundering involving more than €100,000.

The gang have been embroiled in a violent and bitter feud which has seen members of the Armed Support Unit (ASU) become an almost constant presence in patrolling the streets of Longford town.

In June 2020, three members of the gang walked free from court after receiving suspended prison sentences in connection to a violent fracas that instigated the feud.

That came at a busy service station in the midlands town and has has resulted in numerous violent incidents, including shootings, arson attacks, assaults and death threats which have led armed gardai to carry out dozens of major operations.

A statement from the Garda Press Office has confirmed that CAB officers travelled to Longford on Tuesday where the man was arrested before being taken to Mullingar garda station for questioning.

He was detained there for a number of hours under section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.

He has since been released with a file now expected to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to determine what charges, if any, can be brought against the man.