A registered sex offender, missing for over seven years, is back in police custody after being identified from the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (Ceop) Centre’s Most Wanted website.

John Murrell, aged 39, who is considered a high-risk offender, was tracked down in the Republic of Ireland and arrested last Friday, 28 September, by police officers in the Garda Siochana who had been assisting officers from West Mercia Constabulary.

After Murrell, a convicted sex offender was released from prison in September 2000 he was ordered to comply with notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003; but he failed to report at the probation hostel to which he was assigned.

Despite searching for him since September 2000, West Mercia police were unable to track him down until his picture was posted on the Ceop's website in January this year. The force is now seeking to bring him back to the UK to appear before the courts in Worcester.

The Ceop's Most Wanted website which was set up in November 2006, only lists offenders police feel are 'high risk' because there is real concern they could re-offend.

Jim Gamble, Ceop's chief executive, said: "Murrell learned the hard way that failing to comply with notification requirements is not an option. This result is a credit to everyone who reported sightings and came forward with information.

"Offenders who believe they can evade punishment by travelling abroad underestimate our determination to bring them to justice. Alongside our partners, we will take every step within our power to track them down.

“We are delighted with the success of the Most Wanted website so far. By working alongside Crimestoppers, local police forces and most importantly the public, we have managed to locate nine offenders in 11 months.

“Members of the public continue to adopt an incredibly supportive and responsible approach to this initiative."

Ceops is still continuing to appeal for information about outstanding offenders Joshua Karney and Peter Wheatherley. They are sought for failing to comply with notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

Weatherley is missing from the South Yorkshire area but is known to have links in the north of England. Intelligence also indicates that he could be in Spain, or elsewhere in Europe.

Karney has connections in the Lancashire area but is known to travel throughout the United Kingdom. Members of the public are asked to keep an eye out for these individuals and report any possible sightings to the local police force, or if they wish to remain anonymous they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. They are urged not to take matters into their own hands.

People can receive automatic updates on new individuals posted on the Most Wanted website at Crimestoppers.