British law enforcement agencies have launched a fresh appeal to track down 12 of the most wanted criminals believed to be hiding in Spain. The National Crime Agency (NCA), alongside Spanish police and Crimestoppers, released the updated list on Thursday, warning expats and holidaymakers: "These are not the people you want in your neighbourhood."
Operation Captura's 20-Year Track Record
Since its inception two decades ago, Operation Captura has issued 11 public appeals naming the most wanted fugitives thought to be residing in Spain. Out of 111 offenders and suspects listed, 98 have been apprehended, demonstrating the initiative's effectiveness. The latest appeal includes accused killers, drug traffickers, and money launderers.
Warning to Communities
NCA deputy director of international operations, Rick Jones, emphasised that criminals often seek to blend in among British expat communities and continue their illicit activities while living in Spain. He stated: "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." Jones added that fugitives exploit the trust of these communities to offend against them or target victims in other countries remotely.
Fugitives frequently use fake passports under different names, and in extreme cases, undergo cosmetic surgery to alter their appearance and evade detection. Jones stressed the seriousness of these criminals, noting the harm inflicted on victims through drug addiction, fraud, and financial ruin.
Key Fugitives on the List
Among the 12 wanted individuals is Alexsandr Vladimirovich Kuksov, also known as Alexander Kuksov, a 23-year-old Russian last known to be in Tenerife. He is accused of laundering millions of pounds from UK drug dealers by converting cash into cryptocurrency, providing similar services for cybercriminals, and assisting Russian oligarchs in evading sanctions by purchasing UK property.
Kevin Thomas Parle, 45, is wanted by Merseyside Police for two murders: Liam Kelly in Liverpool in 2004 and Lucy Hargreaves in Walton in 2005. He has connections to Malaga and the Costa Blanca.
Derek McGraw Ferguson, 62, described as white, 5 feet 3 inches tall, stocky, and balding, is sought by Police Scotland for the murder of Thomas Cameron outside a pub in Glasgow on June 28, 2007.
Extradition Success and Continued Threat
In the past year, 56 criminals have been extradited from Spain back to the UK. NCA director general of operations, Rob Jones, said: "Fugitives rarely stop offending while on the run. They continue to harm communities in both Spain and the UK, and attempt to stay under the radar by blending into large British expat populations."
The appeal was officially launched at a press conference in Alicante on Thursday. British expats and holidaymakers are urged to review the most wanted list. Authorities advise against approaching suspects or informing them if they decide to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously in the UK at 0800 555 111 or in Spain at 900 926 111, with translation services available. Alternatively, an anonymous online form can be submitted at the charity's website: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/spain.
