Bogotá, Colombia — A 46-year-old British man with prior stalking convictions has been arrested in Ecuador in connection with the murder of 36-year-old Colombian influencer and model Natalia Villalba, whose body was found beaten and stuffed inside a suitcase in a Bogotá apartment, authorities said.

Matthew Ashley Foster-Smith, from Bournemouth (also reported as Poole), Dorset, was taken into custody at Quito International Airport on Saturday. Colombian prosecutors allege he fatally beat Villalba on June 18 in an upscale apartment in the Chicó neighborhood before attempting to conceal her body and fleeing the country.

Cleaning staff discovered Villalba’s body on June 22 inside a large suitcase in the shower of the rented apartment, with water still running. Foster-Smith is accused of causing her death, hiding evidence, and crossing into Ecuador via the southern border.

Prior to his arrest, Foster-Smith reportedly contacted a British newspaper claiming an alibi involving watching an England World Cup match. Colombian authorities, assisted by Dorset Police and Interpol, tracked him down as he attempted to flee further.

Foster-Smith has a criminal history in the UK, including a 2023 conviction for stalking a former partner, during which he was sentenced to more than two years in prison. He was previously struck off as a doctor.

Villalba, originally from Cúcuta and a popular influencer and model who had lived in Bogotá for years, was remembered by those who knew her for her vibrant presence online and in the fashion world.

Colombian officials have vowed to bring justice for her death, with Foster-Smith expected to face charges including aggravated feminicide and concealment of evidence upon extradition or transfer to Colombia.

The case has drawn international attention, highlighting concerns over violence against women and the challenges of cross-border fugitives in South America.