Canadian wanted for 22 murders nabbed in Panama
Mar 12, 2012, 10:39 AM
PANAMA CITY (AP) – Police in Panama say they have captured a fugitive with suspected ties to the Hells Angels motorcycle gang who is wanted in Canada for 22 murders.
A police statement says Michel Smith was detained Friday in the Playa Coronado tourist region, 62 miles (100 kilometers) west of Panama City.
The statement released Sunday said Smith was captured after a two-month surveillance operation, adding that he is wanted in Canada on 29 charges, including 22 counts of murder.
Canadian police have been looking for Smith since a massive 2009 gang sweep in the province of Quebec.
Panamanian police say they are coordinating his extradition to Canada.
The statement put Smith’s age at 50, while media in Canada say it is 49.
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