Fugitive Irish Drug Boss Nabbed in Spanish Bar
Gary Vickery, 38, a Dublin-born drug kingpin, has finally been caught after dodging UK courts for over two years. The gangster, who led a major drugs and money laundering ring, skipped bail in July 2021 and became a wanted man.
On the Run After Guilty Plea
Vickery admitted his role in importing class A and B drugs but failed to turn up for his remand hearing. A warrant was issued for his arrest. Despite multiple chances to surrender, he stayed on the run, vanishing from justice again in September 2021.
Captured in Lanzarote Nightclub
He was finally arrested on October 20 at a bar in Yaiza, southern Lanzarote. The Guardia Civil, working with the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), swooped in during a joint operation. Authorities say Vickery masterminded huge drug shipments worth over £23 million at street value, moving money and drugs alongside associates Thomas Kavanagh, 53, from Tamworth, and Daniel Canning, 42, also from Dublin.
Kavanagh and Canning are locked up awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty. Canning also admitted to illegal firearm and ammo possession.
NCA Vows UK Justice For Organised Crime
“Vickery was given ample opportunity to return to the UK following his guilty plea, but has failed to come back on every occasion,” said NCA Deputy Director Matt Horne. “We will ensure those who cause harm to the UK through organised crime are held accountable. This case highlights our tenacity.”
“I’d like to thank the NCA officers in the UK and our international liaison team in Spain, who worked closely with the Guardia Civil to locate Vickery.”
Vickery appeared in a Spanish court this morning. Extradition proceedings are now underway to bring him back to the UK to face justice.
