Summary
A large drug bust in the Irish Sea stopped a plan to smuggle over 2.2 tonnes of cocaine into the UK and Europe. Eight men were jailed, but European authorities admit they struggle to stop cocaine trafficking due to limited resources. Ireland's coastline is a key target for smugglers, and its defenses are stretched.
Key Facts
- More than 2.2 tonnes of cocaine were seized by Irish authorities in a failed smuggling attempt.
- Eight men involved in the plan were convicted and jailed for a total of 129 years.
- Last year, 100 suspected drug-trafficking ships were not stopped due to limited available vessels.
- The MV Matthew, a ship used in the attempt, was bought by cartels in August 2023.
- UK saw consumption of 117 tonnes of cocaine last year; cocaine-related deaths have significantly increased since 2011.
- Smugglers adapt by using at-sea methods and targeting different routes, like Ireland's extensive coastline.
- Ireland has around 2,000 miles of coastline, considered vulnerable due to low defense spending and limited naval and air resources.
- The Irish government plans to increase defense funding by €600 million over the next four years.
