Mob boss Daniel Kinahan has vowed to never again set foot on Irish soil – insisting he is a “legitimate and respected businessman” in Dubai.
Five years on from the Regency Hotel attack that sparked the bloody Hutch/Kinahan feud, he told how he will never be able to return to his home country.
Kinahan, who was named in the High Court as the leader of an international drugs cartel, is attempting to make a name for himself in the boxing world.
In a statement, the crime boss hit out at “media accusations” against him which he claims leave him “incapable of receiving a fair trial”.
An upcoming BBC Panorama programme – Boxing And The Mob – will reportedly allege how some in the boxing world are working with the cartel boss.
Kinahan, 43, is also allegedly involved behind the scenes in setting up the biggest world title fight for years between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
A statement on his behalf said: “Daniel is incapable of receiving a fair trial, not just in Ireland but elsewhere in the world due to the barrage of media accusations and coverage.
The opinion of Gardai, expressed during court proceedings unconnected to Daniel, is routinely presented as fact, absent of scrutiny or context.”
The statement issued to the Irish Independent adds Kinahan has no convictions and should be considered “innocent until proven guilty”.
He claims statements made in the High Court were “wholly untrue and unsupported by any evidence”.
The statement added: “My wish, as is my right, is to continue my professional and family life in peace and without continued harassment, and I will vigorously defend my right to do so.”
Gardai have been contacted by the Irish Mirror for a comment.
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