One of UK’s Most Wanted Fugitives Arrested in Spain

A man featured on the UK’s most wanted list has been arrested in Spain following a coordinated international law enforcement operation.

Simon Dutton, 49, originally from Bolton, Greater Manchester, was detained in La Nucía near Benidorm on Thursday 14 May 2026, after being identified as one of 12 high-priority fugitives believed to be hiding in Spain.

He had been wanted by Greater Manchester Police for his suspected role in organising large-scale cocaine importation into the UK, alongside alleged money laundering offences. One shipment linked to the investigation was estimated to be worth £1.5 million.

Dutton’s arrest came just hours after the launch of the Most Wanted in Spain appeal. Operation Captura, now in its 20th year and continues to deliver significant results. Since its launch, 11 public appeals have helped trace and arrest 98 of the 111 fugitives featured.

The Most Wanted appeal has been launched to locate and bring to justice 12 of UK’s most wanted fugitives, who are believed to be hiding in, or have links to Spain. The offenders, all men, are wanted for crimes including murder, drugs offences and money laundering.

The campaign page provides descriptions of the eleven remaining Most Wanted fugitives and their crimes:

Most Wanted in Spain campaign page

Recognise any of these people?

If you have information about any of the men listed on the appeal page, we understand it can be difficult to come forward and speak up. You might have seen or heard something about one of these wanted fugitives, but don't know what to do, or are scared to tell someone. It's easy to think there is nothing you can do, but we offer you a safe way to do this. No police. No witness statements. No courts. You remain 100% anonymous. Always.

UK: Call 0800 555 111

Spain: Call 900 926 111 (freephone, answered by Crimestoppers UK with translation if needed)

Give information anonymously