Dark Web Facilitates Gun Imports, Posing New Challenge for Gardaí

The dark web is simplifying the import of guns and weapons into Ireland, creating a new challenge for authorities, according to Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly. Previously, acquiring illegal firearms required extensive connections; now, the dark web allows easier access, forcing An Garda Síochána to adapt its approach.

Kelly made these remarks during a recruitment drive announcement, aiming to increase Garda membership from over 14,600 to 15,000 by year-end. He expressed satisfaction with an investigation where three men were charged with firearms possession after a sting in Co Kildare. This case involved undercover gardaí supplying guns and ammunition to Evan Fitzgerald, 21, who purchased the weapons via the dark web. Fitzgerald later stole another weapon and fired shots in a Carlow shopping centre before taking his own life.

Kelly noted the dark web reduces barriers to weapon importation, making it a significant challenge in recent years. He cited a recent conviction of an individual importing high-powered, AR-15-style weapons assembled from parts. Importers using the dark web are often unknown to Gardaí and employ methods to remain anonymous, requiring the force to develop technical solutions to counter these tactics. Despite these challenges, Kelly affirmed Gardaí have achieved successes in combating such criminal behavior.