# Detention of Alejandro Hamlyn in UAE

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/detention-of-alejandro-hamlyn-in-uae
> Updated: 2026-09-17T18:14:28.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2.

Spanish businessman Alejandro Hamlyn has been detained in the United Arab Emirates following an Interpol request. The arrest follows an order from Spain’s Audiencia Nacional after Hamlyn failed to appear at a trial in June 2025.

Hamlyn is accused of leading a scheme through his company, Hafesa Energía, to commit a hydrocarbon VAT fraud exceeding 154 million euros. Prosecutors have sought 89 years in prison for charges including money laundering, leadership of a criminal organization, and crimes against the Public Treasury. The case involves leaked audio recordings regarding alleged judicial favors. Extradition proceedings to Spain are expected to take several months.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: UAE arrests Swedish gang leader wanted for money laundering

The UAE and Sweden have arrested a Swedish gang leader wanted via Interpol for money laundering involving 70 million SEK and cryptocurrency, alongside six accomplices in Sweden.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uae-arrests-swedish-gang-leader-wanted-for-money-laundering

### 2026-08-26: Alejandro Hamlyn detained in UAE following Interpol request

Spanish businessman Alejandro Hamlyn has been detained in the UAE via Interpol for an alleged 154 million euro tax fraud and involvement in a controversial political influence scheme.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alejandro-hamlyn-detained-in-uae-following-interpol-request

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Cite as: Detention of Alejandro Hamlyn in UAE. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/detention-of-alejandro-hamlyn-in-uae