'Dangerous' British drugs trafficker extradited after arrest in Dubai

Craig Martin Moran has been returned to the UK where he awaits a life sentence in prison

Craig Martin Moran has been extradited to the UK, where he awaits a life sentence for drug and weapon trafficking charges. Courtesy: Dubai Police

A "dangerous" British career criminal awaiting a life sentence over drug and weapons trafficking charges in the UK has been arrested in Dubai.

Craig Martin Moran - leader of the notorious Colin Gunn gang - was arrested by Dubai Police after a Red Notice was issued by Interpol for his capture.

Moran was placed under surveillance for several days as part of a police operation. He was extradited to the UK following his arrest.

Maj Gen Khalil Ibrahim Al Mansouri, assistant commander of criminal investigation affairs at Dubai Police, said a task force of officers was set up to bring the wanted criminal to justice after information was exchanged with British authorities.

“The latest artificial intelligence technology was used to locate the suspect then his movements were closely observed for a few days before he was arrested,” said Maj Gen Al Mansouri.

Brig Jamal Al Jalaf, the Dubai force's CID chief, said officers moved in on their target after observing him leaving his address in Dubai.

“He was inside his car after leaving his Dubai residence when the force team members raided his car and were able to control and arrest him,” Brig Al Jalaf said.

Dubai Police said Moran has a lengthy criminal record and was first imprisoned at the age of 16.

His offences include an armed robbery at a jewellery store in the city of Nottingham during which a member of staff was killed.

“He served 13 years in prison for this crime,” said Colonel Saeed Al Qemzi, director of the wanted persons department.

“He was also convicted by the Nottingham Crown Court for selling drugs worth millions, and was released last year after serving his prison sentence, but carried out other crimes in his home country which led to a recent verdict of life in prison to be issued against him,” said Col Al Qemzi.

A Dubai Police statement said the gang leader was considered a threat to British society.

“The British authorities thanked Dubai Police General Command for the rapid arrest of the Colin Gunn gang leader and for the professionalism and co-ordination with Interpol and noted that the suspect is considered dangerous who threatens the security of the British society,” said Dubai police.

He was referred to Dubai public prosecution in line with extradition laws before being handed over to UK authorities.