A man accused of murdering two Scottish gang members at a bar will spend the New Year in a crowded prison close to where the incident occurred. Michael Riley, who had been in a luxurious Spanish prison known as ‘The VIP prison,’ was transferred to Alhaurin de la Torre prison near Malaga. This move came after he abandoned his fight against extradition and was flown to Madrid in October.
Authorities in Spain have confirmed that Riley, apprehended in Liverpool on an international arrest warrant shortly after the killing of Ross Monaghan and Eddie Lyons Jnr, is now being held at Alhaurin de la Torre prison. His lawyer, believed to be in the Malaga area, requested the transfer to have better access to his client for defense preparation.
Riley’s case is being handled by the Civil and Preliminary Investigation Section of Court of First Instance Number Two in Fuengirola. He is facing two murder charges for the deaths of the Scottish citizens inside a pub. The court confirmed his remand in custody without bail on November 13. Riley was interrogated from Alhaurin Prison where he is currently detained.
In Spain, suspects can be held on remand for up to four years, with a possible two-year extension upon judicial approval. The investigation process can be lengthy, as seen in the case of Conor Cowan from Stornoway, who has been detained for over two years without formal charges related to a substantial cocaine seizure.
Alhaurin Prison, where Riley is now held, is overcrowded and known for its challenging conditions, contrasting with the more comfortable facilities at Soto del Real prison. The latter has been frequented by high-profile individuals, earning it the nickname “Jail Resort” or “Golden Cage.” However, Alhaurin Prison has faced criticism for its lack of adequate space and ventilation, leading to complaints from inmates.
Riley’s extradition proceedings may take months or even years to conclude, as court-led investigations can be complex and time-consuming. Despite initial resistance, Riley consented to be extradited to Spain to face prosecution for the alleged murders. Spanish authorities believe he was planning to flee to a tax haven before his arrest on an international warrant.
The ongoing investigation into Riley’s case has revealed details linking him to a rival Scottish gang, although police have not confirmed any direct connection to gang conflicts. The pub where the fatal shootings occurred has reopened under a new name, Irish Rover, following the tragic events involving Ross and his gang associate.