Fugitive David Ungi Nabbed in Spain After 9 Years on the Run
David Ungi, 30, finally caught after being on the run for nearly a decade over the 2015 murder of 18-year-old Vinny Waddington in Liverpool. The suspected killer was arrested entering a gym in the Spanish town of Coin, Malaga, alongside three other men during a major international police operation.
High-Powered Firearm Seized at Arrest
Authorities swooped as part of a joint mission between Spanish police, the National Crime Agency (NCA), Merseyside Police, and the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit. Officers found a 9mm Ruger pistol and ammunition hidden in a rucksack, raising serious concerns about Ungi’s dangerousness.
Third Top UK Fugitive Captured This Week
- Ungi is the third most wanted criminal bagged in just seven days.
- Callum Halpin, accused of murder, was caught in Portugal on Monday.
- Alex Male, wanted for drug offences, was arrested at Lisbon airport last Saturday.
Extradition proceedings are now underway after Ungi was remanded in custody following a court appearance in Malaga.
The Gruesome Murder and Ungi’s Long Flight From Justice
Less than 24 hours after Vinny Waddington was fatally shot through his motorbike’s window and rammed off Banks Road in Garston, Ungi fled the UK. Two other men were convicted in 2016, but Ungi remained on the lam — until now.
He is also wanted for heroin supply in Liverpool, adding to his dangerous profile.
Police and Crime Officials Praise Cross-Border Teamwork
“Three of the UK’s most wanted fugitives being arrested in a week is a fantastic achievement,” said Steve Reynolds, NCA’s regional manager in Spain. “Ungi is a very dangerous person and his arrest is good news for communities both in Liverpool and Spain. These arrests would not have been possible without close cooperation between police forces in the UK and our colleagues in Spain and Portugal.”
Detective Chief Inspector Cath Cummings added: “Merseyside Police remains relentless in its pursuit of criminals and will leave no stone unturned. We will continue to work closely with other law enforcement agencies, both at home and overseas, to bring those wanted for the most serious offences to justice.”
Charity Calls for Public Tips to Nab Remaining Fugitives
Lord Ashcroft, chair of Crimestoppers, said: “Having this fugitive caught within days of two others is fantastic news and shows the public want to protect our communities. It proves how our joint Most Wanted campaign with the NCA is working successfully. If you know of someone on our list, please contact us anonymously.”
If you have information on UK’s most wanted fugitives, call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit their website to fill out a confidential online form.
