Two Arrested After Man Bundled Into Van at Gunpoint in Thornton Heath
Two men have been arrested on suspicion of kidnap after a terrifying ordeal in Thornton Heath. At 2:26am on Monday, 25 November, police were called when a woman spotted a man being forced into the back of a van on Keston Road by three strangers.
Victim Tracks Location from Inside Van
Shortly after, another woman called police, claiming her husband had been kidnapped. He had phoned her from inside the van, begging her to call the cops immediately. Officers quickly arrived at the wife’s home and managed to speak to the victim through his phone.
Using his phone, the victim tracked the van’s location and passed details to police. A nearby unit spotted the van, which then failed to stop and sparked a high-stakes pursuit. The chase ended when the van hit a dead end.
Suspects Tasers Used to Make Arrest
The two men inside the van abandoned it and bolted. Officers chased them down and used tasers to bring them under control. The third man was not found in the vehicle and remains at large.
The victim, visibly shaken but unharmed, revealed how he was travelling home from a night out at ‘1’ when three unknown men confronted him. They demanded he get into their van. When he refused, they shoved a gun to his head and threatened him before dragging him inside and driving off.
Despite threats, no firearm was found after police searches. The man escaped without serious injury and is receiving ongoing support.
Police Praise Public and Victim’s Quick Thinking
Detective Inspector Mel Lillywhite said, “This is a true team effort—thanks to a vigilant member of the public, swift call handlers, and brave officers who pursued and arrested the suspects.”
“The victim’s quick thinking to track his location was crucial. If you see or hear something suspicious, call the police immediately. Without that call, this rapid response wouldn’t have been possible.”
Police are still hunting for the third suspect and urge anyone with information to come forward. The two men remain in custody as investigations continue.
If you have info, call police on 101 quoting 628/25NOV.
