Banker turned ‘kidnap kingpin’ John Lyon arrested in Abuja

John Lyon alleged Bayelsa kidnapper arrested in Abuja

Police have arrested an ex-banker, John Lyon, for alleged involvement in a kidnap syndicate.

Lyon, who is believed to be a top member of a kidnap syndicate that operates in Bayelsa State, was arrested in Abuja, according to reports.

In a video recorded on the day of his arrest, Lyon confessed to being part of “only two” kidnap operations.

Using his experience in the banking industry, Lyon allegedly oversaw the kidnap of a top bank executive who paid N60million ransom.

A four-man gang allegedly kidnapped the senior bank executive, Danjuma Emeije, at Okaka in Yenagoa metropolis on June 30, 2022.

The police had previously made some arrests over the incident.

A close relative of Emeije, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the arrest of the suspects, according to The Eagle.

He said: “When Danjuma Emeije came back from the Operation Puff Adder’s office in Yenagoa, he was visibly shaking after seeing those involved in his horrifying kidnap.”

Spokesman for the Bayelsa State Police Command, Asinim Butswat, said: “Investigation is ongoing and the police are making progress.”