Four Arrested After Kidnap Drama in Brighton
Police swooped on a flat in Brighton after a shocking kidnap report on Monday night. Four suspects were arrested following a tense stand-off on Ditchling Road, with officers working fast to secure the victim’s safe release.
Victim Rescued by Specialist Police
On Tuesday evening, Counter Terrorist Specialist Firearms Officers (CTSFOs) stormed the scene shortly after 6pm. A 27-year-old local man was freed and taken to safety. The police acted swiftly after identifying the flat as the crime location.
Suspects Flee and Cause Chaos
- A 20-year-old man with no fixed address and an 18-year-old from Midhurst were arrested on suspicion of kidnap right at the scene.
- A third suspect, 25, attempted to escape by running onto a nearby roof on Vere Road, throwing roof tiles and damaging several cars.
- After a specialist negotiator was brought in, he too was arrested for kidnap.
- The fourth man, 27, was nabbed on suspicion of supplying Class A drugs.
All four remain in police custody as investigations continue.
Police Appeal and Public Reassurance
“Our priority was to safely recover the victim and detain suspects,” said Superintendent Adele Tucknott of Brighton Command. “Covert and overt tactics, including distraction devices, were used, which may have caused loud noises. No firearms were discharged.”
“This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information can contact police online or call 101, quoting Operation Bloomfield.”
“We thank the public for their patience. Expect a heightened police presence. This is an isolated incident with no wider threat.”
Police temporarily closed part of Ditchling Road during the operation. The road was reopened the same evening once it was safe.
