Kidnap is linked to city shooting

Detectives investigating the attempted murder of a 25-year-old man in Preston are linking the shooting to an earlier kidnapping from a nearby street.

The victim was shot in the neck in St Paul's Road on 11 April, a few hours after a 21-year-old man was abducted from a black BMW in Fishwick View.

Lancashire police said he was taken by a group of men who had driven a white Mercedes Vito van into the vehicle.

Two men, aged 21 and 27, have been arrested on suspicion of kidnap.

Police said the kidnap victim was violently attacked, bundled into the van, driven away and held captive for three hours.

He suffered serious injuries.

Witness appeal

"As a result of police enquiries it has become apparent that this incident is linked to the shooting of the man in St Paul's Road," a spokesman said.

Police said they were looking for a third man in connection with the kidnap, and a further two men in connection with the shooting.

Their identities have been circulated to police forces but are not yet being made public.

Detectives are hoping to hear from witnesses to the kidnap, which happened at about 1800 BST, or anyone who saw the van - registration DG57 TWD.

Det Insp Des Coop said: "The investigation is progressing at a fast pace and I anticipate further arrests will be made in the near future.

"I would point out that whilst incidents of this nature are unusual, I will make it clear that these matters will be rigorously and thoroughly investigated and those responsible will be dealt with in a robust manner."