A FATHER-of-two is facing extradition to Peru in connection with a £3million drugs bust, more than two years ago.

Gary Findlater, 45, of Conway Avenue, Great Wakering, is suspected by Peruvian police of being involved in an attempt to smuggle 30kg of cocaine out of the country on a yacht in March 2012.

Mr Findlater, who declined to comment to the Echo, is believed to be fighting the extradition proceedings on human rights grounds, but will face a hearing on January 5, at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

Mr Findlater’s brother-in-law, Gareth Young, was one of three people arrested in the South American country in March 2012 after allegedly hiding drugs in fuel tanks and fire extinguishers on the yacht, the Audaciter.

Mr Young was arrested alongside Philip Austin Collins, who is the nephew of singer Phil Collins, and Richard Crewe. All three are awaiting trial in Peru.

The men have been linked to Michaella Connolly and Melissa Reid, both 20, who were arrested last August at Lima international airport, for trying to smuggle out more than 11 kilos of cocaine.

Mr Findlater, an engineer, is on bail, under curfew between 9pm and 4am. A UK prisons inspector is said to have travelled to Peru to see the conditions there and it is understood they do not meet EU standards.

The UK does have an extradition agreement with Peru, but it is thought this is the first time it has been used.

The decision to allow an extradition must be made by the Secretary of State and the courts.

A judge will also decide if the extradition is compatible with the Human Rights Act 1998.

The Home Office declined to comment on Mr Findlater’s extradition proceedings until they are considered by the Secretary of State.