Tycoon made up kidnap to escape financial issues

AN IRISH property developer who alleged he was kidnapped and held captive for eight months made up the extraordinary story, it has been claimed.

Kevin McGeever, 68, reportedly came clean after being arrested on suspicion of wasting police time on Thursday.

The former tycoon from Mayo – who was emaciated and disorientated when found wandering a roadside barefoot – said he made up the elaborate tale to escape financial pressure.

Garda sources said cash-strapped Mr McGeever admitted to staging his kidnapping to keep investors off his back.

Mr McGeever, who had lost about five stone, claimed he had been abducted at gunpoint from his mansion in May last year. He had the word “thief” inked on his forehead when he was found.