Man arrested on suspicion of murdering Leeds businessman John Luper - 22 years ago

The man was arrested in Bradford this morning and has been taken into custody where he will be interviewed.

John Luper, aged 57, was killed during a robbery at his home in Sandmoor Drive, Alwoodley, Leeds, on the night of February 16, 2004. He was attacked by a group of masked intruders as he walked his dog near a neighbour’s driveway at about 11.30pm. He was then dragged back to his home.

Mr Luper’s wife, daughter and the family’s au pair were tied up and left in an upstairs bedroom until the suspects eventually left the property. They later managed to free themselves but found Mr Luper unconscious downstairs.

Detective Superintendent Damian Roebuck, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “Our investigation team are firmly committed to doing everything we can to get justice for John Luper and his family. This includes the analysis of forensic materials which I can confirm has led to today’s arrest.

“Mr Luper’s family have been updated and, while we appreciate that the arrest will understandably bring a renewed focus on the investigation, we do not anticipate any immediate developments at this stage.

“It is more than 22 years since John’s brutal murder and we are no less determined to find out who killed him. He was a prominent businessman in north Leeds so I would urge anyone who is aware of people making inquiries into him and his business dealings around the time of the murder to please come forward with names.

“Likewise, perhaps you were approached and asked to buy jewellery from unknown people around the time of the murder. This information could prove vital to our investigation.”

Police were called at 1.45am and despite attempts to resuscitate him Mr Luper was pronounced dead at the scene. Post-mortem results showed he died as a result of asphyxiation.

Jewellery and cash worth around £100,000 were taken during the robbery. Among the items taken was a rare Cartier watch that was platinum with vertical rows of diamonds either side of the face.

Anyone with any information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact detectives by calling 101 quoting Operation Ashkirk or via the 101LiveChat online. Information can be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.