THE mysterious police presence in the News Shopper area yesterday (August 5) could have been a fugitive drug trafficker being bought back to serve his 23-year sentence.

Mark Lilley, 41, was found naked in the panic room of his Spanish villa last month after going on the run in 2000 when he skipped bail during his trial and it is believed he was flown back from Spain to Belmarsh Prison in Thamesmead yesterday.

When News Shopper contacted the Met about the police activity - which included eight police Land Rovers, prison van and a police helicopter - they were directed to the Serious and Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) who have not yet commented on the incident.

People took to Facebook to report the sighting as it made its way through Orpington at about 4pm yesterday afternoon.

Annie Miah wrote: “Be someone high profile! The front car stopped the traffic at the top of spur road to keep the line together. Every traffic light was green for them aswell- handy and we were behind it!”

Charmaine Baker commented: “Just seen these going by 5 arches. Whole road has hewn stopped and the helicopter and land rovers blue lighting the black prison van.”

And Julie Trott Price said: “The police escort come past catford and downham I wana no who it was.”

Clare Ryan added: “Don't know who it is but they are leaving from Biggin Hill airport!!!!”

And on Twitter Mrs ABM @AmieKateBM17h said: “@Kent_999s bexleyheath police helicopter, car 3 police range rovers and a blue police van down Brampton road what's going on??”

Lilley’s capture included a joint operation between SOCA and the Spanish National Police – more than 40 armed officers were involved.

Did you see the police convoy? Call the newsroom on 01689 885725 or click here to email us your pictures.