A man wanted in connection with the brutal murder of a Nantwich dad-of-two at a remote farmhouse has been arrested in Malta.
Christopher Guest More Jr, 41, who was one of the UK’s most wanted men, was apprehended on a European Arrest Warrant in the Swieqi area on Thursday night as a result of a joint operation with the Maltese authorities.
More Jr is suspected of being involved in the death of Brian Waters at Burnt House Farm in Tabley on 19 June 2003.
Mr Waters, living in Stapeley at the time, was tortured and killed in front of his two children in a row over drugs.
More Jr was also wanted for the alleged attempted murder of a second man at the farm, and imprisonment and assault of other victims including Mr Waters’ son and daughter.
He left the country shortly after the incident.
Graham Roberts, regional manager at the National Crime Agency, said: “We are utterly delighted that after almost 16 years on the run, hiding from law enforcement, Christopher Guest More Jnr has been arrested and will now have to return to the UK.
“More Jr featured on the very successful Operation Captura fugitives hunt, and out of 96 fugitives, there are now just 12 evading justice.
“The NCA has supported Cheshire Constabulary with their investigation, using some of our specialist capabilities and our international network of officers in his pursuit.
“We have waited a long, long time for this moment.
“We were never going to give up in the hunt. Other fugitives should really look at this and remember how tenacious UK law enforcement is.”
More Jr is the 84th person to be located out of 96 publicised through Operation Captura – a multi-agency initiative led by the NCA and Crimestoppers to track down fugitives.
Cheshire Police renewed its appeal for information on his whereabouts in April when he was also added to Europe’s Most Wanted list.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Burton, from Cheshire Constabulary, said: “Our determination to find Christopher Guest More Jr has not faltered and, over the years, we have remained committed to locating him.
“This latest development highlights the close working relationship between Cheshire Constabulary and the National Crime Agency, along with law enforcement agencies abroad, and I would like to thank colleagues for all of their assistance.
“I would also like to thank members of the public for all of their support and information provided on the back of our appeals.”
More Jr, who appeared in court in Valletta today, has been remanded in custody until his next hearing on Monday June 10.
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