A British fugitive suspected of orchestrating large-scale cocaine smuggling and money laundering has been detained in Spain, the National Crime Agency (NCA) has confirmed.
Simon Dutton, 49, originally from Bolton in Greater Manchester, was arrested in La Nucia, a town near Benidorm. He had been listed as one of the UK’s most wanted suspects.
According to the NCA, Dutton was sought by Greater Manchester Police in connection with organising significant cocaine imports into the United Kingdom. One interception linked to his network was valued at £1.5 million.
Authorities also want to question him over alleged false passport offences and for breaching a Serious Crime Prevention Order.
His arrest is part of a wider operation, Operation Captura, which has sought to track down 12 of the country’s most wanted fugitives. Since the initiative began 20 years ago, 11 public appeals have named a range of criminals. To date, 98 out of 111 offenders and suspects have been caught.
‘No safe place’
NCA deputy director Rick Jones said criminals often attempt to blend in with British ex-pats in Spain, and many continue offending while living there.
“They will generally integrate themselves into these communities, which are populated by many, many thousands of British people who are perhaps enjoying their retirement or running businesses there,” Mr Jones said.
“Criminals will integrate themselves and hide among society, and then abuse that trust of those communities and offend against them.
“That’s why we are so determined to leave no stone unturned and no safe place for them to do that.”
Dutton is expected to appear before a Spanish court in the coming days. The NCA is working with Spanish authorities to secure his extradition back to the UK.
