The Family is currently regarded as Ireland’s most powerful drug trafficking gang, having surpassed the Kinahan cartel in domestic influence. Operating primarily out of west Dublin, particularly the Ballyfermot and Clondalkin areas, the gang has built a vast criminal enterprise over the past two decades.
Origins and Rise to Power
The Family’s ascent began in the early 2000s, capitalizing on the decline of rival gangs and the void left by the Kinahan cartel’s retreat from Ireland. Their operations expanded significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, exploiting disruptions in international drug supply chains to solidify their dominance in the Irish market.
Leadership and Key Figures
- Brian Grendon: Considered the primary leader, Grendon was jailed in 2002 for possession of €1.9 million worth of heroin. He has since maintained a low profile while orchestrating large-scale drug operations.
- Philip Grendon: Brian’s older brother, Philip, was imprisoned in Spain in 2014 after authorities found €3.8 million worth of cocaine in his hotel room. He was released in 2019.
- Derek “Dee Dee” O’Driscoll: A close associate of the Grendon brothers, O’Driscoll has been identified by the Criminal Assets Bureau as a leader in large-scale drug distribution.
Criminal Activities and Operations
The Family’s criminal portfolio includes:
- Drug Trafficking: Importing and distributing heroin, cocaine, and cannabis across Ireland.
- Money Laundering: Utilizing businesses such as car dealerships and tanning salons to launder drug proceeds.
- Exploitation: Recruiting vulnerable individuals, including recovering addicts, to store and transport drugs, often coercing them through debt.
- Violence and Intimidation: While the gang has avoided high-profile feuds, they have been linked to shootings and attempted murders to protect their interests.
International Connections
The Family maintains strong ties with criminal networks in:
- Spain: Utilized as a transit point for drug shipments.
- Turkey: A key source country for heroin.
- United Kingdom: Collaborations with UK-based gangs facilitate distribution and laundering operations.
Their use of encrypted communication platforms like “Ghost” has been compromised by international law enforcement, leading to significant intelligence gains against them.
Law Enforcement Actions
Irish authorities have intensified efforts against The Family, resulting in:
- Seizures: Confiscation of drugs worth millions, firearms, and substantial cash assets.
- Arrests: Detainment of key members and associates, including recent arrests linked to attempted murders and drug smuggling plots.
- Asset Freezes: Targeting of businesses and properties used for money laundering.
Despite these efforts, The Family continues to adapt, maintaining a low profile and employing sophisticated methods to evade detection. Their resilience and strategic alliances pose ongoing challenges to law enforcement.
