TWO men are thought to have leapt from a third-floor window after police came to the aid of a man being attacked in his own flat.

A gang of five men forced their way into the property in Old Redbridge Road, Southampton, in the early hours of yesterday.

They beat up the 33-year-old man who lives there so badly that he needed hospital treatment.

He was later released.

Police were called quickly and it is believed that at least two men may have jumped from a third-floor window in order to escape. They are believed to have run off in the direction of Redbridge.

Officers say it is possible the men may have sustained injury as a result of jumping from a significant height.

Three other men – a 21- year-old, 24-year-old and a 25- year-old all from Southampton – were arrested at the scene and are currently in police custody.

Detective Inspector Dave Nealon, who is leading the investigation, said: “It is believed that the suspects were together in a navy bluecoloured BMW car prior to this offence. Did you see a group of men in such a car?

“I am also particularly interested in hearing from witnesses who know of anyone with any leg or back injuries which may have been sustained during this incident.

“I do wish to stress this type of incident is very rare for this area. Residents should be reassured that we are working around the clock to identify other suspects who have not been arrested. There is no information to suggest that other members of the public are at risk.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Southampton CID on 101, quoting Operation Wansbeck or you can call the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.