'Preferred bidder' found for MV Matthew berthed in Cork Harbour

The MV Matthew, owned by a Dubai-based company, was boarded at gunpoint by Ireland’s elite army ranger wing in rough seas off the Cork coast in September 2023

The MV Matthew, a Panamanian-registered ship, was at the centre of the largest cocaine seizure in the history of the State. Picture: Larry Cummins

Drug trafficking cargo ship the MV Matthew has cost the State almost €10m in maintenance, crewing, and berthing fees since it was intercepted in 2023.

A buyer has been found for the drug trafficking ship, and the Revenue Commissioners are engaging with Panamanian authorities to ensure legal and regulatory compliance.