John Belfield arrested in Suriname as police seek extradition in Thomas Campbell murder probe

A Greater Manchester man wanted by police in connection with a murder investigation in Tameside has been arrested in Suriname on drugs allegations.

John Belfield, 28, was arrested on Thursday 23 March by police in the South American country. GMP additionally want to speak to Belfield in connection with the death of Thomas Campbell, who was found dead at his home in Mossley in July last year. They say it is likely Belfield will remain in Suriname to face drug charges and GMP will “continue to work with international partners to bring him back to Manchester to face questioning from GMP’s Major Incident Team.”

A public appeal to help trace Belfield was launched by GMP in August 2022. Detective Chief Inspector Liz Hopkinson from GMP’s Major Incident team said: “The news of Belfield’s arrest is an important development in our investigation, we will be working with international law enforcement agencies to bring Belfield back to Manchester and continue in our pursuit to find answers for Thomas’ family.

“Through vigilance shown by our colleagues in South America, Belfield was recognised by Suriname’s law enforcement upon his arrest and information regarding his whereabouts was shared with our Force Critical Wanted Unit. We have previously released numerous appeals to ask for help in finding him and we thank the public for their continued support in this case. This is an excellent result which shows once again, that UK law enforcement does not give up on finding those abroad who are wanted for offences in the UK.”

Three people were jailed last month for their role in Mr Campbell’s death. He was ambushed on his doorstep before being murdered inside his house.