The double life of a wanted criminal

A FRENCH Moroccan criminal who led a double life was arrested in connection with a series of crimes in the Alicante province.

The crimes he allegedly committed include the theft of a car in Altea. In one life he was a virtuoso musician; in the other, a dangerous robber.

He was detained in the hamlet of Llano de Murcia Bruges, accused of several robberies in Cabezo de Torres.

He is also accused of attempted murder in Elche in 2009, where he shot a man twice, after having an argument with him.

According to the detained man’s neighbours he was the epitome of a law abiding artistic type, who was dedicated to his music.

He made his living – as neighbours believed – by playing keyboards.

In fact he was a drug trafficker, and at the time of his arrest he had two warrants outstanding for his detention for drugs offences and attempted murder.

The shooting occurred when a group of men, including the accused, argued over a scrap metal deal. The attacker drew a gun and shot one of the men, leaving him badly wounded.

It was only on Wednesday of last week that police gained information that led them to the fugitive.

He resisted arrest and the agents had difficulty taking him into custody.

Two sets of keys, both belonging to two stolen cars, one taken from Altea, were found at his home.

Two firearms and ammunition were also seized.

The Altea car was used in an armed robbery on a supermarket.

The man remains in custody.

By Paul Deed