He was reported missing from Airdrie in North Lanarkshire in May 2022, facing trial for rape at the time. Lord Cubie said Clacher, a former Army reservist, used his survival experience to try and escape the consequences of his actions. It was reported that Clacher was living under a new identity and had struck up friendships with other British expats in Nerja. "Extensive enquiries were carried out after Clacher was reported missing, with support from specialist units including the Dog Branch, Marine Unit, Financial Investigation Unit and Air Support Unit. However, it later became clear that he had faked his death and left the country in an attempt to evade justice.