National Police have arrested a man in Orihuela Costa who was wanted under an International Arrest Warrant issued by the Russian authorities for alleged fraud offences. He could face a maximum sentence of ten years in prison if extradited and convicted.

Russian officials indicated that the fugitive might have taken refuge in Alicante province to evade justice. Acting on that information, officers launched an investigation which led to his location in Orihuela Costa, where he was detained following a planned police operation.

According to the warrant, the suspect fled Russia after being sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment for fraud. Investigators believe he created a network of companies involved in the fictitious sale of oil, allegedly defrauding more than 2.6 billion roubles, equivalent to around 26 million euros. The funds were then allegedly laundered through other businesses.

Police said the operation was made possible through international co‑operation and information sharing between law enforcement agencies. Following his arrest, the man was brought before the Central Investigating Court of the National Court, which will handle the extradition process.