Two further arrests in connection with alleged Southampton kidnapping

Two men aged 27 and 30, from Southampton, have been arrested on suspicion of kidnap.

• Large police presence spotted as part of kidnap probe

According to police, both remain in custody at this time.

Their arrests come following an investigation into a report of an aggravated burglary at an address in St Andrews Road.

Police taped off a property in St Andrews Road, Southampton

Police received reports of a group of men breaking into the property with an axe before forcing a man into a vehicle which then sped off.

The man has since been located following the incident on Friday afternoon.

• Five men charged following alleged kidnapping involving gun and machete

However, once on the scene, officers found a cannabis factory with between 100 and 150 plants.

Five men have already been charged with offences relating to this incident.

Police at St Andrews Road, Southampton 12/3/21

Spartak Demiraj, 30, of Brittania Road in Southend on Sea, Brixiado Halilaj, 20, of Portland Street, Southampton and Zef Gjoka, 29, of Nightingale Road, Southampton have each been charged with kidnap.

Aranit Topalli, 27, of St Andrews Road, Southampton has been charged with kidnap and producing Class B drugs.

Armando Topalli, 27, of John Thornycroft Road, Southampton has been charged with kidnap and possession of a firearm with intent.

All five men appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court earlier in the week and have been remanded to next appear at Southampton Crown Court next month.

Police at St Andrew's Road, Southampton 12/3/21

Four other men were also initially arrested in connection with the incident.

A 37-year-old man from Tottenham in London was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He has been released from custody but remains under investigation.

A 43-year-old man from Tottenham in London was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He has been released from custody but remains under investigation.

Police at St Andrew's Road, Southampton 12/3/21

A 41-year-old man from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary, kidnap and producing Class B drugs. He has been released from custody but remains under investigation.

A 69-year-old man from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary, kidnap and being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs. He has been released from custody on police bail with conditions while our enquiries continue.

A police spokesperson said: "We continue to appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area at around the time of the incident or has any information that may assist our investigation to call us on 101 quoting 44210092064.

"Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111."