34 Polish and Lithuanian Men with Criminal Histories Removed from Ireland

Thirty-four Polish and Lithuanian men with criminal histories in Ireland were removed from the State on a chartered flight from Dublin. Twenty-five were serving prison sentences and removed directly from Irish Prison Service custody, while the other nine were arrested and detained prior to removal.

The individuals, aged mid-20s to mid-60s, included 22 Polish and 12 Lithuanian nationals. Exclusion Orders banning re-entry for five to ten years apply. This operation supports ongoing efforts against organized retail crime, drug-related crime, road traffic offenses, sexual offenses, and domestic violence.

The flight departed Dublin, arrived in Warsaw, Poland, before 4pm, and continued to Vilnius, Lithuania, arriving before 6pm. This brings the total removed under the Free Movement Directive to 88 in 2026. Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan stated that restricting freedom of movement has consequences for those whose behavior forfeits this privilege. The operation cost €184,465.00, excluding VAT, for the return flight. This follows a similar January operation where 33 individuals from these countries were also removed.