An alleged key Kinahan cartel member has been extradited to the UK to face EncroChat firearms charges

An alleged member of the international Kinahan Cartel has been extradited to the UK to face firearms charges, the National Crime Agency (NCA) revealed.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was escorted back to the UK by a team of NCA officers Joint International Crime Centre. He appeared in court and has been remanded into custody to face trial at a later date.

He is accused of being involved in the supply and acquisition of firearms after NCA investigators discovered messages on the encrypted messaging platform Encrochat.

Craig Turner, Deputy Director of Investigations at the National Crime Agency, said: "(He) is the second associate linked to the Kinahan OCG who has been returned to the UK, after thinking he could evade us.

"Our work to target the alleged criminal activities of the crime group continues. Our global reach, and ongoing partnership with international law enforcement agencies should act as a warning to anyone who thinks they can go on the run and avoid facing justice – we will not stop until you are back in the UK and behind bars".