An Albanian man who fled to Spain to evade trial for people smuggling offences has been convicted and sentenced after being extradited back to the UK.

Investigation into Organised Crime Group

Arsen Feci, 49, from Nottingham, was a key figure in an organised crime group (OCG) responsible for illegally smuggling migrants across the English Channel.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) launched an investigation after a UK coastguard plane spotted migrants being offloaded from a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB), named Orca, in Joss Bay, Kent, on 9 October 2022.

Feci, along with accomplices Banet Tershana, Klodian Shenaj, Jetmir Myrtaj, and British national Desmond Rice, used the same location for another smuggling attempt on 23 October 2022.

Key Evidence Against Feci

Investigators found that Feci:

• Coordinated crossings and purchased equipment for the smuggling operations.
• Was in constant contact with pilots and organisers, including a meeting on 12 October to arrange the purchase of a second RHIB, named Aquaholic.
• Was caught on CCTV purchasing maintenance items from Halfords and an inflatable kayak, paddles, and a pump for the smuggling operation.

Smuggling Operation Intercepted

On 29 October 2022, as Aquaholic began its journey to Belgium, the NCA tipped off Belgian police, who intercepted the boat near Nieuwpoort.

Two pilots, aged 35 and 45, were caught attempting to load 12 migrants, including a woman and a child, into the vessel.

Only six life jackets, all unsuitable for sea travel, were found on board.

The pilots were prosecuted in Belgium and sentenced to six years in prison each.

Feci’s Arrest and Escape to Spain

• 29 November 2022: Feci and Shenaj were arrested in Nottingham.
• February 2023: Feci was rearrested after more evidence was uncovered.
• March 2023: Feci appeared at Nottingham Crown Court and was bailed—but fled to Spain before his next hearing.
• August 2024: He was re-arrested in Spain and later extradited back to the UK.

Sentencing and Police Statement

At Nottingham Crown Court, Feci pleaded guilty to assisting unlawful immigration to the UK.

On 17 February 2025, he was sentenced to five years and four months in prison.

His co-conspirators Tershana, Shenaj, Myrtaj, and Rice were convicted and sentenced in August 2023.

NCA Statement

Derek Evans, NCA Branch Commander, said:

“Feci is the final piece of the puzzle in this organised people smuggling group, taking migrants on dangerous journeys across the Channel and undoubtedly making significant money as a result.”

“He thought he could avoid justice by fleeing to Spain, but our international reach and assistance from partners saw him brought back to the UK.”

“Tackling organised immigration crime is an NCA priority, and we will continue to target people smugglers like Feci and his group.”

Ongoing Crackdown on People Smuggling

Authorities remain committed to dismantling people smuggling networks operating both in the UK and internationally.

Anyone with information related to illegal immigration or human trafficking is urged to contact the NCA or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.