An organised crime gang from Ireland is masterminding illegal trade in rhino horns around the world, according to Europol.
The European law enforcement agency said it has uncovered intelligence and evidence identifying an organised crime group illegally trading stolen rhino horn across Europe and beyond.
"The theft of rhino horn shows how organised criminals are always on the lookout for new and creative crime opportunities", Europol said on Thursday.
"Significant players within this area of crime have been identified as an Irish and ethnically-Irish organised criminal group, who are known to use intimidation and violence to achieve their ends."
The group are targeting antique dealers, auction houses, art galleries, museums, private collections and zoos, also resorting to theft and aggravated burglary, with contacts in the UK, France, North and South America, South Africa, China and Australia.
Police say the group are also involved in drugs trafficking, organised robbery, distribution of counterfeit products, tarmac fraud and money laundering across the EU.
Gardaí and Europol have called for dedicated investigations in countries where the gang has links to determine the scale and threat from the crime.
Police forces have also been urged to swap intelligence on the gang and warn people who own rhino horns or put them on display that they may be a target.
Rhinos are often poached for their horns which are sold on the black market and are used for decoration, to produce luxury products and also used in traditional medicine.
Depending on the size and quality of the specimen, a rhino horn can be worth between €25,000 and €200,000.
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