Gun Runner Kingpin Faces 14 Years
US Arms Smuggler Linked to Pipe Bombs
The alleged head of a gun-running operation that funneled American-sourced weapons into Ireland faces a potential 14-year prison sentence. The case, involving sophisticated smuggling routes, has highlighted the significant threat posed by organized crime.
Elaborate Smuggling Operation Revealed
Mark McCourt, 34, of Newry, Co Down, pleaded guilty to firearms offenses and involvement with a criminal syndicate aiming to import prohibited weapons. The Director of Public Prosecutions considers his role to be at the higher end of culpability for such crimes, carrying sentences from ten to fourteen years.
The court heard that McCourt controlled an organization whose primary function was importing firearms components from the United States to Ireland. These were then reassembled and distributed to other criminal groups.
US Trips Linked to Firearms Deals
McCourt and an associate reportedly traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, on three occasions in April and May of last year. Evidence extracted from McCourt‘s seized phone detailed communications with potential buyers.
“€75k cash is [the] best price,” McCourt allegedly messaged a customer using the alias “The Keeler.” He added, “I’ll throw in the 10 pipes for free.”
— Detective Inspector McCartan
The detective indicated that “pipes” likely referred to pipe bombs. McCourt possesses a significant criminal record, including convictions for assault causing harm, theft, and dangerous driving.
Phone Data Uncovers Wider Network
Following his arrest on an unrelated matter on May 24, 2024, McCourt‘s phone was seized. Data recovered provided insight into the smuggling ring’s activities over the previous year. It included communications on encrypted platforms like Signal, WhatsApp, and Snapchat.
The prevalence of firearms trafficking remains a global concern. In the US, over 11 million unregistered firearms were seized in 2023, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF 2023 Firearms Commerce Report).
McCourt has been remanded in custody, and the case has been adjourned for sentencing on November 3.
