In a stunning turn of events that has left a community and police force reeling, a man who had been missing for five years has been found alive and well in Bradford.
A Disappearance and a Murder Investigation
Ismail Ali was last seen on May 29, 2020, after he finished his shift at Gulam Food Stores on Cumberland Road. For years, his whereabouts remained a complete mystery, with friends and family holding out hope for his safe return.
This week, the case took a dark and seemingly conclusive turn. On Monday, West Yorkshire Police arrested five individuals – three women aged 47, 54, and 55, and two men, aged 27 and 51 – on suspicion of Mr Ali's murder. Officers conducted raids on several homes located on Beckside Road and Cumberland Road.
Following the arrests, Detective Inspector Tom Hilyer made a sombre announcement, stating, ‘After extensive enquiries we now suspect that Ismail Ali is no longer alive, and we suspect that he may have been murdered.’ It appeared the force was finally closing a tragic missing persons case.
The Unexpected Reappearance
Just two days later, on Wednesday, the investigation was turned completely on its head. Ismail Ali himself strolled into a police station, very much alive and in good health.
A police spokesperson confirmed the incredible development, saying, ‘Mr Ali’s family has been notified that he has been found safe and well and is being safeguarded whilst necessary checks are being made.’
Officers are now focused on piecing together the full story of where Mr Ali has been for the last half-decade. The circumstances surrounding his initial disappearance and his subsequent return remain unclear.
Ongoing Enquiries into Financial Crimes
While the murder investigation has been definitively closed with Mr Ali's reappearance, the police actions from earlier in the week have led to a separate and ongoing probe.
During the searches of the three properties, a large amount of cash was seized. A number of the individuals initially arrested in connection with the alleged murder now remain on bail for money laundering offences.
The police confirmed that enquiries into these financial crimes are continuing and are expected to remain active for some time.
