Australian-Algerian wanted over alleged murder of British ex-soldier

London: An Australian-Algerian jihadist has been named by police as the main suspect in the murder of a former British paratrooper found shot dead in Ukraine.

Daniel Burke, from Wythenshawe in Manchester, travelled to Ukraine in 2022 to help fight against Russian invading forces.

But the 36-year-old was found dead about 50 kilometres away from the front line in the Zaporizhzhia area in August last year. He had been shot from behind in the head and neck and his body was left in a drain near a shooting range.

Ukrainian authorities have now named his suspected killer as Abdelfetah “Adam” Nourine, who holds dual Australian and Algerian nationality. Nourine, who is also known as “Jihadi Adam”, is believed to have now left the area, whereabouts unknown.

An inquest into Burke’s death was opened this week. Zak Golombek, area coroner for Manchester, was told a man had confessed to being involved in the shooting but had claimed it was an accident.

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While in Ukraine, Burke headed a group of foreign military volunteers known as the Dark Angels.

Greater Manchester Police, which is assisting his family, said efforts were continuing in Ukraine to find the suspect.

Deputy Superintendent Lewis Hughes, from the force’s serious crime division, said: “Our deepest condolences continue to be with Daniel Burke’s family, who have endured the most awful six months.