A 13ft high mobile digital screen is the latest tool being used in the hunt for a suspected drug gang boss.

Anthony Dennis, 47, was last known to live in Ongar but is now thought to be on the run in Spain and is one of 18 ‘most wanted’ criminals being tracked down as part of Operation Captura, a joint initiative between Crimestoppers and the National Crime Agency (NCA).

Dennis is wanted on suspicion of conspiracy to commit drug trafficking offences outside the UK and conspiracy to import class A drugs.

Believed to be hiding among ex-pat communities in Spain, his face is now being broadcast to crowds enjoying the summer sun in the hope he will be recognised.

NCA deputy director Steve Reynolds said: “We have caught 68 out of 86 fugitives on the Captura list and the rest know we will not stop until we catch them too.

“By taking our campaign directly into Spanish communities where we believe they are living and socialising, their lives will become even more uncomfortable.

“We want British expats and locals to help us by being extra eyes and ears and telling us what they know.”

It is believed that Dennis is the lead member of an organised crime group involved in high-level international drug trafficking.

Between July 1 2012 and October 30 2013, he allegedly conspired with others to import three tonnes of cocaine from South America into the Netherlands using contacts in both continents.

Between the same dates, Dennis allegedly assisted in importing 67.5kg of cocaine into Belgium and Germany, and it is also alleged that the crime group plotted to import cocaine into the UK either by supplying UK buyers outside Europe or by using their own routes.

Dennis is 5ft, 3ins, and has a small scar on the right side of his forehead.

The truck-mounted screen will travel to popular ex-pat areas such as Benidorm, Malaga and Puerto Banus, broadcasting Dennis’ face outside nightclubs, bars, British supermarkets and restaurants.

Director of operations at Crimestoppers, Roger Critchell said: “This is something that we have never done before but we believe that broadcasting these fugitives’ faces right in their back yards will not only encourage the public to speak up but show these individuals that there really is nowhere to hide.”

He added: “Many of these fugitives are currently living a life of leisure funded by serious crime.

“They cannot be allowed to hide forever, they must be brought to justice.

“Do the right thing and help us find them.”

Anyone with information can phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit the website.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Anthony Dennis' last known address was in Ongar