‘It was like a scene from an action movie’: How Ireland’s biggest drug bust unfolded

The seizure of the MV Matthew, with its massive consignment of drugs, off the Irish coast in September 2023 was as daring as it was skilful.

After days of a cat and mouse chase in challenging weather between the Naval Service and the Matthew, members of the elite Army Ranger Wing descended from a helicopter on to the deck of the cargo ship. The crew were arrested and the drugs found.

Operation Piano – which brought Revenue, the Garda and the Defence Forces together – resulted in Ireland’s largest ever drugs seizure, worth €156 million.

While the operation was an undoubted success, a showcase of ability, power and intent, it also highlighted how ill-equipped the Defence Forces are.

Only one ship was available for the operation, and only one helicopter. So many things could have gone wrong.

Eight men have been jailed over the drugs seizure, their significant sentences a signal from the Irish courts that anyone involved in such international drug smuggling will be treated severely.

Irish Times crime and security correspondent Conor Gallagher describes how the Matthew was intercepted and seized.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by John Casey.

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