A man wanted on suspicion of supplying heroin and cocaine across the North West of England has been extradited to the UK after being captured in the Netherlands.

Simon McGuffie, 44, of Allerton, Liverpool, is alleged to be a member of a Merseyside-based organised crime group involved in the large-scale supply of drugs.

McGuffie, who featured on the Operation Captura most wanted fugitives campaign, was located in Amsterdam as a result of joint work between the National Crime Agency and the Dutch National Police. He was wanted by Titan - the North West Regional Crime Unit – over the allegations.

Following his arrest in December, he was extradited in February and will appear at Manchester Crown Court on 23 March for a plea and directions hearing.

He is the 80th fugitive to be arrested out of 96 publicised through Operation Captura – a multi-agency initiative run by the NCA and Crimestoppers.

Matt Burton, head of the NCA’s International Crime Bureau, said: “McGuffie thought that by moving around Europe he could evade capture, but there is no safe haven for fugitives.

“There are still 16 outstanding on our Captura list, many of whom continue to pose a threat to the UK and the communities they hide in. We will never stop pursuing these individuals.”

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Hussey from Titan said: "This arrest should demonstrate the commitment Titan and our partners have to tracking down those who try to evade justice, even if they leave the country.”

Lord Ashcroft KCMG, founder and chair of the independent charity Crimestoppers, said: “Fugitives often maintain their criminal behaviour whilst they are on the run, which is why we persist in tracking them down with the public’s help.

“I urge anyone with information on the whereabouts of any of the outstanding fugitives to contact our charity on 0800 555 111 or use our anonymous online form. If you are in Spain, you can call for free 900 555 111. You will remain 100% anonymous. Always.”