When gardaí raided the homes of 11 senior members of the Black Axe crime organisation this week they found more than they expected.

As well as data-crammed mobile phones and laptops, they found merchandise emblazoned with the logo of the international fraud and money laundering gang.

The caps and bags – the sort of memorabilia a golf club might offer – feature “Ireland” and also slogans such as “Ireland Zone, Stay Safe”.

The gang has a significant operation in Ireland, having been linked to the theft and laundering of €94 million since 2020. Gardaí have arrested 636 people in relation to Black Axe activities, with 1,400 potential suspects. The gang originates in Nigeria.

Also seized was something that will be of interest to law enforcement agencies around the world: a copy of the gang’s constitution. Security sources believe it is the first time the document has ever been found by a police force in a western country.

Irish Times crime and security correspondent Conor Lally explains how the Black Axe gang operates in Ireland and the threat its growing membership poses.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan and Andrew McNair.

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