Small boats gang suspect arrested on return to UK

The National Crime Agency says Arsen Feci was extradited and arrested on Wednesday

A man suspected of being involved in a people-smuggling gang has been brought back to the UK after fleeing.

National Crime Agency (NCA) officers arrested Arsen Feci, 46, on his return to Heathrow Airport on Wednesday.

Mr Feci, of Browtowe Street in Nottingham, had been arrested in Spain in August having absconded from the UK in March 2023 after being bailed ahead of his trial, the NCA said.

He appeared at Nottingham Crown Court on Thursday charged with assisting unlawful immigration to the UK.

The NCA says its investigators believe Feci was involved in buying equipment and sourcing people to "staff" crossings from France and Belgium to the UK.

He was remanded into custody and will next appear at the same court on 16 January.

Derek Evans, NCA branch commander, said: "Arsen Feci fled the UK after being charged for his alleged involvement in a people smuggling gang bringing people to the UK via small boats.

"We believe his role in the group was sourcing equipment and people to ensure crossings were a success.

"With thanks to Spanish police, Feci has now been arrested and returned to the UK.

"The NCA has global reach and we will continue to work closely with our international partners to bring those who try to evade justice back to the UK to face the courts."