Dawn raids saw police arrest five men this morning (April 7) as part of an investigation into the kidnapping of two men in Salford last month. Six addresses in Blackley, Gorton and Salford were targeted in the raids.
The first of the alleged kidnappings happened on the evening of March 24. Police say a man was assaulted and dragged into a car by a group of at least three men in Clarendon Park, Salford.
The victim - a man in his 20s - was found safe and well with minor injuries. Following 'subsequent enquiries' Swinton CID detectives also believe that a second man, also in his 20s, was targeted by this same group, but managed to escape the vehicle
Police believe these incidents have been targeted attacks as a result of a possible drugs dispute involving organised crime. A GMP spokesman said: "Five men aged between 20 and 30 are currently in two custody sites across Greater Manchester and await questioning on suspicion of kidnap."
The force say anyone with concerns or information about suspicious activity in their area should contact police online via LiveChat, if able, or by calling 101 knowing that information will be treated with the strictest confidence. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
