Jail for 'Costa del Crime' Scot

John Barker was caught in Tenerife - nine years after he fled while on bail

A Scot who was caught in an operation against so-called "Costa del Criminals" has been jailed for 14 years at the High Court in Glasgow.

John Barker fled to Tenerife nine years ago while on bail for cocaine and amphetamine trafficking charges.

The 51-year-old, from Irvine, Ayrshire, was caught earlier this year after he appeared on a list of suspected British criminals thought to be in Spain.

During his trial, he had denied any involvement with drugs.

Barker was wanted by Strathclyde Police under two arrest warrants.

They related to trafficking drugs, valued at more than £110,000, within Scotland in 1998 and 1999.

He was extradited earlier this year after his details were posted on a Crimestoppers website targeting Spanish resorts.

The operation was co-ordinated by Britain's Serious Organised Crime Agency (Soca) and the Spanish authorities.

Bill Hughes, of Soca, said: "British crooks who thought they could enjoy a yachts and villas lifestyle in Spain have received a nasty shock.

"Many of them are now experiencing a rather different lifestyle at Her Majesty's pleasure."