Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

The LÉ William Butler Yeats escorts Bulk carrier MV Matthew outside Roches Point, Cork. Alamy Stock Photo
ongoing investigation

Eighth man arrested in connection with MV Matthew cargo ship drug seizure as another released

This latest arrest brings the total number to eight.

LAST UPDATE | 30 Sep 2023

GARDAÍ HAVE ARRESTED another man in connection with the €157 million drug seizure from a the cargo ship MV Matthew and the events surrounding it. 

The Panamanian registered ship was boarded by Army Rangers earlier this week as part of a joint operation involving multiple agencies. The haul of 2,253kg of cocaine represents the largest in the history of the state. 

Gardaí have today confirmed one further arrest, which brings the total number to eight. However, one man has since been released without charge, a spokesperson said.  

“One man was arrested earlier today… for alleged organised crime offences contrary to the Criminal Justice Act, 2006,” a garda spokesperson said. 

“Six individuals are currently being detained by investigating Gardaí under section 50 Criminal Justice Act 2007, at Garda stations in the Southern Region. Two other individuals are currently before the Courts.” 

Those two men, Jamie Harbron (31) and Vitaliy Lapa (60s), appeared before a special sitting of Waterford District Court yesterday evening.

Investigations are ongoing and further updates will follow, gardaí said.