'Most wanted' British man who imported large amounts of cocaine arrested in Spain

A "most wanted" British man who imported large amounts of cocaine into the UK has been arrested in Spain.

Simon Dutton, 49, was wanted by Greater Manchester Police for cocaine importation, money laundering, false passport offences, and breaching a Serious Crime Prevention Order.

He was arrested in La Nucia, near Benidorm, following a collaboration between Spain's Civil Guard and the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA), who said his last known address was in Bolton.

Dutton was wanted for a recall to prison, the NCA said. He had been sentenced for organising large-scale importations of cocaine and money-laundering, with one interception having a street value of £1.5m.

Read more:
Student dies after meningitis outbreak
World's first laughing gas breathalyser trialled

His arrest was announced only hours after the launch of an international "most wanted" campaign, which named Dutton among 12 fugitives sought in Spain.

Three others not on the list were arrested for drug trafficking and document forgery.

Spanish police said a probe had been launched in November last year following a tip-off from the manager of a parcel delivery service in Benidorm, where a suitcase containing 16kg of drugs were found, destined for the UK.

More suspects were identified as the investigation progressed, including Dutton.

An international arrest warrant had been issued at the end of last year.

Spanish investigators conducted searches in Benidorm and La Nucia, discovering various quantities of drugs, along with cash, false documentation, and two vehicles used by the suspects, the Civil Guard said.

Authorities in Spain said Dutton would now face a court hearing for proceedings relating to his international extradition request.

(c) Sky News 2026: 'Most wanted' British man who imported large amounts of cocaine arrested in Spain