Convicted businessman arrested in Cyprus

A BARNSLEY businessman who was convicted of money laundering and fled overseas in 2012 has been captured and extradited to the UK.

Darren John Bagnall is subject to a £1.6m confiscation order after being convicted of money laundering in 2007.

In November 2012, Bagnall fled to Dubai. He told magistrates that it was to realise assets to settle the order but he did not return and then told the court that he was too unwell to travel.

Bagnall was arrested by Cypriot police in Nicosia under the authority of a European Arrest Warrant which was ordered by the Liverpool and Knowsley Magistrates Court.

He was extradited yesterday (October 13) back to the UK to begin his sentence.

Kevin Newe, assistant director, HMRC’s Fraud Investigation Service, London and South region, said: “Bagnall’s extradition demonstrates our determination to use all legal means to ensure that those who abscond for not paying what they owe are brought to justice, no matter where they try to hide.

“In this case, it takes on greater importance given that, with interest, Bagnall still owes some £2.2 million, which we are determined to make him pay.”

Gary Balch, deputy head of Crown Prosecution Service’s Proceeds of Crime, said: “This case underscores the Crown Prosecution Service’s determination to ensure that those who are subject to confiscation orders pay them in full or face the consequences.

“If a defendant refuses to pay, or tries to avoid paying, they will be found and locked up while we continue to track down their ill-gotten gains.”