Over €4.2m confiscated by Criminal Assets Bureau last year

In spite of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the CAB brought 31 new applications to the High Court under proceeds of crime legislation in 2020, matching the number of applications in 2019.

The majority of applications related to drug trafficking cases, though other frequent crime types included thefts, burglary, fraud and money laundering.

More than €1 million was returned to the Exchequer under section 24 of the Criminal Justice Act 1994, which allows for the confiscation of assets of a person who has been convicted of drug trafficking and where the court has determined that the offender has benefitted from drug trafficking.

Justice minister Heather Humphreys said: “Even during the circumstances of the national response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Criminal Assets Bureau continues to play a crucial role in deterring illegal activity by freezing and confiscating assets identified as deriving from the proceeds of crime.

“The Bureau is an example of international best practice in law enforcement and over the last 25 years has demonstrated how we, as a country, can lead the way in tackling serious crime.”

She added: “The 2020 Annual Report evidences the hard work and dedication of chief bureau officer Mick Gubbins and all of the staff and agencies involved in CAB and I would like to thank them for their ongoing efforts and determination to deprive criminals of the benefits of their illegal activity. This government is fully committed to continuing to support the excellent work that the Bureau does.”