Man living in Co Antrim extradited to Lithuania over child human trafficking charges

A 25-year-old man living in County Antrim has been extradited from Northern Ireland to Lithuania, where he is wanted to stand trial for a series of alleged human trafficking offences involving children.

Officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s International Policing Unit confirmed the extradition took place on Thursday, 2nd December, concluding a process that began with the man’s arrest in Templepatrick on 2nd June 2024.

The offences are alleged to have taken place in Taurage County, Lithuania, in July 2020.

Detective Inspector Lennon of the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s International Policing Unit said:

“We continue to work with closely with the National Crime Agency and our European Partners to locate, arrest and extradite those wanted in other countries.

“The Police Service of Northern Ireland is committed to locating fugitives and today’s extradition delivers on our assurance of the relentless pursuit of perpetrators and supporting victims.

“Our message is clear that Northern Ireland is not a safe haven for anyone trying to avoid arrest or the consequences of their actions. We will continue to pursue anyone trying to delay or deny justice to victims of crime.”

The man was transferred into the custody of Lithuanian authorities today following the completion of the UK’s legal extradition process.

The PSNI has reaffirmed its commitment to cross-border policing and international cooperation, stressing that robust collaborative efforts remain central to tackling serious organised crime and protecting vulnerable victims.