Alleged small boats smuggler from Nottingham arrested in Spain after fleeing UK

An alleged people smuggler who fled the UK after being released on bail has been charged after being found in Spain. Arsen Feci of Broxtowe Street, Sherwood, was arrested in early 2023 on suspicion of assisting unlawful immigration to the UK.

National Crime Agency investigators believed the 46-year-old was involved with buying equipment and recruiting people to captain small boat crossings from France and Belgium to the UK. He was found nearly 18 months later in Spain in August 2024 and arrested by the Spanish police.

He was brought back to the UK and arrested at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday, November 20. He appeared at Nottingham Crown Court on Thursday, November 21.

He was remanded in custody and will appear at the same court again on January 16, 2025. 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."