Alleged Irish organised crime boss Daniel Kinahan has been charged in Dublin with directing a criminal organisation after being extradited from the United Arab Emirates.

The 49-year-old, accused of helping run a major international network involved in drug and weapons trafficking and money laundering, appeared before Ireland’s Special Criminal Court late Sunday after being flown from Dubai aboard an Irish government aircraft.

Irish media reported that an extensive security operation involving armed police, military personnel and prison authorities was put in place ahead of his arrival.

After landing at a military base on the outskirts of Dublin, Kinahan was transported directly to court in a bulletproof and bomb-resistant vehicle for an unusual Sunday night hearing.

The Special Criminal Court, a non-jury court that handles cases involving organised crime and terrorism-related offences, was heavily guarded by armed officers during the proceedings.

Crowds gathered outside the courthouse, with some people recording the security operation on their phones as unmarked police vehicles later left the area.

Kinahan appeared before a three-judge panel wearing a black hoodie, black trousers and flip-flops. He did not have a lawyer present.

He told the court that he understood the charges against him, adding that he had been held in isolation in Dubai since Friday and had not been given sufficient time to arrange legal representation.

One of the judges informed Kinahan that any application for bail would have to be submitted to the High Court.

“I think we know I won’t be getting bail, but thank you so much for explaining,” Kinahan responded.

The extradition represents a major development in Irish authorities’ long-running efforts to prosecute Kinahan over allegations surrounding his role in international organised crime.

The case is expected to draw significant attention as proceedings continue under heightened security in Dublin.