THUGS FLEE 

Deadly drugs feud over as rival gangs ‘dismantled’ three years after horror murder of Keane Mulready-Woods, 17

• Published: 15:56, 6 Apr 2023
• Updated: 16:08, 6 Apr 2023

THE two rival gangs that caused the Drogheda drugs feud that left four people dead have been dismantled, Gardai have revealed.

Three out of the four leaders on both sides have fled the country with arrest warrants and charges waiting for them here if they ever return.

All the other main players are either in jail, dead or have also done a runner.

Gardai know where they are but have not yet applied for an International Arrest Warrant for their extradition.

New figures released by acting Justice Minister Simon Harris show that a total of 203 people were arrested in relation to the feud since January 1, 2018 when it kicked off up until March 13 last.

A further 374 charges were issued by Gardai and 266 summonses.

The busiest year was 2020 when 17-year-old Keane Mulready Woods was abducted, murdered and his body dismembered by hitman Robbie Lawlor.

Senior Gardai said his savage killing shocked many local people and they quickly turned on the gang members. There was a huge surge in information passed on to the police.

Mr Harris said 106 people were arrested that year and 179 charges and 134 summonses issued against various individuals by the Gardai.

A further 18 people were arrested last year and 17 charges preferred against them.