Fifth alleged member of ‘suspected Brit hit squad’ set for trial in Albania over execution of businessman

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THE fifth alleged member of a suspected British hit squad is set to face trial in Albania for the execution of a businessman — despite being treated for cancer.

Steven Hunt, 50, a truck driver from Bristol, is wanted for his alleged role in the killing of Ardian Nikulaj at a five-star hotel he owned in seaside resort Shengjin.

CCTV cameras captured the shocking moment a gunman wearing a crash helmet burst in and shot the 51-year-old victim six times at point blank range while he was having a coffee.

The assassin then fled on a motorbike after the April 2023 attack.

Nikulaj is said to have been the latest victim of a 28-year blood feud between two rival families in Albania.

The killing of Nikulaj, who owned the hotel where he was shot, attracted international headlines.

Prosecutors claim Hunt arrived with other British members of the hit squad and helped monitor Nikulaj’s movements.

CCTV footage allegedly shows him at the Coral Hotel after checking in as a tourist.

A judge told Hunt, who has prostate cancer, he was referring his case for extradition to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper after a ruling at Westminster magistrates.

A decision on Hunt’s case had been delayed after the judge decided to allow more time to get further details on his condition and treatment.

Four others have already been ordered for extradition.

At the latest hearing the court was told that the Briton, who is being held in Wandsworth prison, south London, had undergone surgery.