Couple in 120 mile kidnap ordeal

Forensic scientists examined the scene in Derry

A couple badly hurt in an assault in Londonderry were abducted hours before in County Westmeath.

The pair were taken from their house in Mullingar between 2000 and 2100 BST on Monday, and driven more than 120 miles.

They were brought to Derry where the 42-year-old man was also shot in both ankles. They were found in High Park in Creggan at about 0500 BST.

The man and woman, 38, are being treated in Altnagelvin hospital. Two men have been arrested.

Police on both sides of the border are working together to investigate the circumstances of the kidnapping and assault.

The house in Mullingar was cordoned off for forensic examination. A house in Southend Park in the Brandywell area of Derry was also being searched by police.