British former Catholic priest arrested in Kosovo over child abuse allegations

Former priest Laurence Soper has been arrested in Kosovo. Metropolitan Police

A British former Roman Catholic priest has been arrested in Kosovo over child sex abuse allegations.

Laurence Soper allegedly committed the offences at St Benedict's School in Ealing, where he was a teacher in the 1970s and 1980s.

After teaching at the school he became abbot of Ealing Abbey.

Soper was arrested in 2010 when a man in his 40s came forward with an allegation of sexual assault at the school, which was also attended by actor Andy Serkis and comedian Julian Clary. He was bailed but did not return to a London police station in March 2011. A European Arrest Warrant was issued for him in 2012.

After evading police for five years he was arrested in Peja, in the west of Kosovo. Now in his mid-70s, Soper had lived in the country under the name of 'Andrew'. An official told the BBC an extradition process was under way.

Police in London said: "The Metropolitan Police is aware of an arrest and is currently in liaison with the relevant authorities."

A Foreign Office spokesman told the Press Association: "Our embassy is providing assistance following the arrest of a British national in Peja, Kosovo, on Wednesday 11 May."

Kosovo saw fierce fighting in the Balkan wars of the 1990s. Its independence has not been recognised by Serbia and it still suffers from high unemployment and low income.

related articles
Catholic diocese counters claims that whistleblower priest was \'frozen out\'
Catholic diocese counters claims that whistleblower priest was 'frozen out'

Catholic diocese counters claims that whistleblower priest was 'frozen out'

British campaigner refuses to step down from Vatican sex abuse commission
British campaigner refuses to step down from Vatican sex abuse commission

British campaigner refuses to step down from Vatican sex abuse commission

Vatican cardinal denies attempts to cover up child sex abuse
Vatican cardinal denies attempts to cover up child sex abuse

Vatican cardinal denies attempts to cover up child sex abuse

Sex abuse public inquiry begins investigation into Church of England
Sex abuse public inquiry begins investigation into Church of England

Sex abuse public inquiry begins investigation into Church of England

News
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'

Reform MP Danny Kruger has spoken of the need for Britain to once more assert itself as a  country with a long and rich Christian Heritage.

400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions
400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions

Sex selective abortions appear to be taking place within the Indian community, data suggests.

Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity
Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity

Community pantries across the UK have recorded their one millionth visit, as new research suggests the membership-based food model is helping thousands of households reduce food insecurity, cut costs and prevent them from falling into extreme hardship.

Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India
Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India

India has witnessed a blend of joyful Christmas celebrations in many parts of the country, alongside reports of hate, hostility, and attacks on Christians this season, particularly in northern and central regions.