Three accused of kidnapping plot

Three men from Birmingham have been charged with kidnapping offences.

The men, aged between 36 and 38 and from the Sparkhill and Moseley areas of the city, were arrested during raids on 13 properties on Tuesday, police said.

One man was charged with kidnap, conspiracy to kidnap, firearms offences and perverting the course of justice.

Two others were charged with conspiracy to kidnap. A fourth man, aged 51, was charged with assault. They were due before magistrates later.

Three other men arrested in connection with the inquiry have been released on police bail.