After evading authorities for 17 months, shocking footage captured the arrest of a British man in Spain. William Hunter, aged 34, had fled Portugal after fatally stabbing his roommate, Elliot Mulligan, in 2022. The National Crime Agency (NCA) coordinated efforts that led to Hunter’s apprehension in Alicante by the Guardia Civil.

Law enforcement agencies exchanged intelligence to track down Hunter, with the NCA’s international liaison officers playing a crucial role in the operation. The NCA, Guardia Civil’s fugitive team, Portuguese Judicial Police, and Merseyside Police collaborated extensively to support the arrest process and provide ongoing assistance to Mulligan’s family.

Hunter was convicted of murder in May 2023 but was released on bail in April 2024 pending an appeal. He breached his bail conditions and fled, prompting a large-scale manhunt that resulted in his capture. Hunter is currently in custody in Spain awaiting extradition proceedings.

Gill Duggan, NCA’s Head of Europe, expressed condolences to Mulligan’s family and emphasized the relentless pursuit of justice for Elliot. Merseyside Police Detective Superintendent Mark Drew highlighted the joint effort that led to Hunter’s arrest, emphasizing the commitment to bringing fugitives to justice and supporting victims’ families.

Merseyside Police reiterated their dedication to international law enforcement partnerships and stressed the importance of cross-border cooperation in apprehending fugitives.