What does the cryptic crossword clue "Criminal nears trap (5)" mean?

This cryptic clue uses wordplay to arrive at the answer. Visit the page for progressive hints — definition, wordplay type, and a full step-by-step explanation.

Criminal nears trap (5)

Guardian #1316 | 16 Across | 2025-02-09 flower

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Also seen in

Telegraph Prize Cryptic #3272 (2024-07-07)