Fugitive murder suspect John Anslow extradited to UK after arrest in Cyprus

Anslow was one of five charged with murder of businessman in 2010

Saturday 16 March 2013 15:18 EDT

John Anslow was arrested upon arrival at Heathrow Airport earlier today before being transferred to a high-security prison (PA)

A suspected murderer who escaped from a police van last year has been extradited back to the UK after being arrested in northern Cyprus.

John Anslow, 32, was one of five men charged with the murder of businessman Richard Deakin in Chasetown, Staffordshire, in July 2010.

While being transferred to Stafford Crown Court to face the charges, he escaped from the van near HMP Hewell Grange, in Tardebigge near Bromsgrove.

Staffordshire Police said Anslow was arrested for immigration offences on Wednesday before being deported by the Turkish Cypriot authorities.

He was arrested on arrival at Heathrow airport earlier today and taken to a high-security prison.

Anslow, from Tipton, West Midlands, will appear via video link at Stafford crown court on Monday for failing to appear at court.

Police said Deakin's family have been informed of the developments.

Police also said nine men have been arrested and charged in connection with the escape in the past three weeks.