Kidnap victim may 'no longer be alive'

Detectives in Lancashire are appealing for information following the violent kidnap of a Rochdale man from a street in Bacup back in August 2009.

Paul Brady, 44, was kidnapped from the Beaufort Road area of Weir, Bacup on Saturday 1 August.

Despite numerous media appeals and months of police investigation, the whereabouts of Paul Brady is still unknown and a major police inquiry continues. However, following extensive inquiries to try and establish where he may be, detectives now believe he may no longer be alive.

The man leading the investigation, Detective Supt Neil Hunter, said: “The fact that we are appealing for help from other police forces and members of the public for an offence of this nature is extremely unusual and is therefore an indication of the grave concerns I have for Paul’s safety and welfare.

“We know that a violent attack has taken place when Paul Brady was kidnapped and his attackers were armed with metal poles and possibly a gun.

“Paul Brady has not been in touch with his family or friends since 1 August 2009 which is extremely worrying. We are doing everything we can to find him but I am keen to hear from anybody who thinks they might have seen Paul or anyone that knows of his whereabouts or has been in his company since August 1st to contact the police.”

Paul Devalda, 34, of Padiham Road, Burnley, has been charged with his murder and a provisional trial date has been set for May 2010.

Lancashire Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact Burnley Police Station on 08451 25 35 45 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.