Men arrested over murder of missing South Yorkshire man Richard Dyson – despite no body being found

Detectives investigating the disappearance of Richard Dyson arrested two men this morning on suspicion of his murder – despite no body being found.

The 58-year-old disappeared in November 2019 and for the first time detectives have today revealed that they believe he ‘may have been killed’.

A 67-year-old Rotherham man and a 68-year-old Barnsley man are in police custody this morning in connection with his disappearance.

Richard was last seen by his 20-year-old daughter, Bethany, from Catcliffe, Rotherham, on Friday, November 15.

When he failed to turn up for their next arranged meeting, she reported him missing on Monday, November 25.

An investigation was launched, and enquiries established Richard was last seen on Sunday, November 17 at about 11pm, walking along the A6135 Sheffield Road, Hoyland.

South Yorkshire Police said: “Despite officers pursuing many lines of enquiry, Richard has not been traced and evidence that has recently been reviewed now suggests he may have been killed, despite no body being found.”

Detective Inspector Neil Coop, in charge of the investigation, said: “Since Richard disappeared 17 months ago, my team and I have worked tirelessly to understand the circumstances surrounding this case.

“Unfortunately, we have not yet been able to trace him and sadly now believe he may have been killed.

“The arrests made today are as a result of evidence that has recently come to light and I hope we will now move closer to having the answers his family so desperately needs.

“As you can imagine, this is an extremely difficult time for Richard’s family, including his daughter.

“This investigation is progressing quickly, and I once again appeal to anyone who has information that may help to come forward. It’s not too late."

During an appeal for information on her dad’s disappearance, made last September, Bethany said: “It’s just horrendous, I can’t rest.

“I hope he’s still alive.”

Anyone with information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote incident number 459 of November 25, 2019.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted on 0800 555 111.

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