British fugitive wanted in connection with the killing of a Colombian model has been arrested in Ecuador after an international manhunt spanning multiple countries, authorities said.
Matthew Ashley Foster-Smith, 46, from Bournemouth, England, was detained at Quito International Airport while allegedly attempting to board a flight to Europe. His arrest followed the discovery of the body of 36-year-old Colombian model and graphic designer Natalia Villalba inside a suitcase in a rented apartment in Bogotá.
According to Colombian investigators, Villalba’s body was found bound inside a grey plastic suitcase concealed beneath a running shower in the bathroom of the apartment, located in Bogotá’s upscale Chapinero district.
Police believe the suspect fled Colombia shortly before the victim’s body was discovered.
Authorities said surveillance footage captured Foster-Smith entering the apartment on June 17 and leaving the following day. Investigators also reviewed security footage allegedly showing him carrying bedsheets to a laundry area inside the building.
The investigation gained momentum after police recovered both British and U.S. passports from the apartment, helping investigators identify Foster-Smith as a suspect.
Colombian authorities subsequently requested an Interpol Red Notice, triggering international efforts to locate and arrest him.
Officials believe the suspect crossed into Ecuador via the Rumichaca border crossing before being tracked to Quito International Airport.
Colombian media reported that investigators traced his location through mobile phone activity while he was attempting to purchase a ticket to Europe.
Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán confirmed the arrest and praised the joint operation involving Colombian law enforcement, Interpol and Dorset Police in the United Kingdom.
“This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of international police cooperation in bringing suspects to justice,” the mayor said.
Villalba’s mother, Claudia Villalba, said she last spoke with her daughter several days before her body was found.
She described her as a hardworking and determined woman committed to building a better future.
Court records in the United Kingdom show Foster-Smith has previous convictions for stalking-related offences. He was previously sentenced to prison after repeatedly violating court orders designed to protect former victims.
British authorities had also sought his arrest after he failed to comply with bail conditions in a later stalking case.
British media previously reported that Foster-Smith described himself as a doctor in connection with several business ventures.
However, the UK’s General Medical Council has stated it has no record of him being registered as a licensed medical practitioner.
The investigation into Villalba’s death remains ongoing.
Colombian authorities are expected to begin extradition proceedings to return Foster-Smith from Ecuador to face murder allegations.
Authorities have not released further details regarding a possible motive, and Foster-Smith has not publicly responded to the allegations.
As with all criminal proceedings, he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
