New True Crime Podcast 'Making of a Fugitive' Explores Dark Underbelly of Crime

The BBC has launched a gripping new true crime podcast titled "Making of a Fugitive," which delves into the hidden world of fugitives and their extraordinary efforts to evade capture. Premiering on July 3, 2025, the nine-part series is narrated by Welsh actor Richard Harrington and produced by BBC Cymru Wales. The podcast explores real-life stories of international fugitives, detailing the lengths to which they go to remain undetected by authorities, including stolen identities and drastic measures such as plastic surgery.

In an exclusive interview, Jayne Morgan, the series writer and producer for BBC Cymru Wales, stated, "We thought we knew these stories having worked on them over the years, but this podcast gives new insights and reveals the extraordinary lengths some go to in order to stay hidden." The narrative begins with Martin Evans, a notorious conman known as the "ostrich man," who deceived investors out of nearly a million pounds in an ostrich farm fraud before transitioning to a life of international drug dealing and money laundering. Evans was named one of the UK's "most wanted" by police in 2012 and managed to evade justice for five years.

Another prominent figure featured in the podcast is American fugitive Matt Cox, who spent nearly a decade on the run after committing various financial crimes, including bank fraud and identity theft. Cox famously faced his own wanted poster in a police station, and his self-proclaimed narcissism provides a unique perspective on his criminal exploits. Cox explained, "I became infamous by committing bank fraud... I would then order credit cards and build a false credit profile in those names. I think the amount ended up at $11.5 million."

The podcast also examines the case of Mohammed Ali Ege, who became an international fugitive following the mistaken identity murder of teenager Aamir Siddiqi in Cardiff 15 years ago. The podcast features interviews with Siddiqi's family, who continue to seek justice for their loss and await Ege's capture. The series raises poignant questions about the nature of remorse among fugitives: Are they sorry for their crimes, or merely regretful of being caught?

"Making of a Fugitive" encourages listeners to consider what happens when a fugitive is finally cornered, providing insights into the psychology of those who choose to live outside the law. The first two episodes are available now, with new episodes released weekly. This podcast not only sheds light on individual stories but also invites broader discussions about crime, justice, and the societal impacts of living as a fugitive.

As the podcast unfolds, it promises to engage audiences with its compelling narrative and real-life implications, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between law enforcement and those who evade it. Through the lens of these dramatic stories, "Making of a Fugitive" seeks to redefine public understanding of crime and punishment, making it a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.