The suspect had been arrested in Gibraltar on February 12 on the strength of a European Arrest Warrant, following an RGP operation in support of a major organised crime crackdown by the Guardia Civil in the neighbouring region.

Sanchez Vega appeared in the Magistrates Court on February 15 and did not contest the EAW issued by a Spanish court.

The judge subsequently ordered the extradition to proceed.

Under Spanish law he faces a maximum term of 28 years and six months imprisonment on conviction.

RGP Commissioner Ian McGrail expressed satisfaction at the smooth hand-over and reiterated the excellent cooperation that exists with Spanish law enforcement agencies to bring organised crime groups to justice.

26-02-19 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR