Hunt for illegal immigrant accused of threatening woman at hotel

A warrant has been issued for the arrest of an alleged illegal immigrant accused of behaving threateningly to a woman at a budget hotel.

Arkhan Hilaj, 33, is said to have used threatening and abusing behaviour towards the woman – described as his partner or former partner – at the Metro Inns hotel in Falkirk.

The hotel has been named locally as housing asylum seekers.

In an incident alleged to have occurred on April 14, 2025, Hilaj is said to have repeatedly shouted and sworn, uttered offensive remarks to the woman, struggled with her, pulled a plastic bag from her, followed her and utter threats of violence towards her.

He has previously appeared and denied the charge and a summary trial had been set for November 11.

At the previous hearing, he further denied a second charge of knowingly entering the UK in breach of a deportation order.

However, Hilaj, described on court papers as “of no fixed abode”, failed to appear at Falkirk Sheriff Court for a pre-trial procedural hearing on Monday.

No solicitor appeared for him and no explanation for his absence was given.

Prosecutor Stuart Asher applied for a warrant for his apprehension, which Sheriff Clair McFarlane granted.