THREE men have been arrested after a man was reportedly kidnapped outside of a pub and assaulted. 

An investigation has been launched by police over the incident in Swanage town centre on Friday night.

The victim was reportedly approached by three men between 10.25pm and 10.40pm on January 14 outside the White Horse pub in High Street.

The men – who are believed to be known to the victim – allegedly forced the victim into a car that was parked outside the Curiosity Shop and drove him to an address in the town. 

The victim fled the scene and the incident was reported to Dorset Police at around 11.10pm later that evening.

During the incident, it is reported that the victim was assaulted. He sustained injuries that are not believed to be serious.

Following enquiries, two men from Swanage, aged 35 and 42, and a 47-year-old man from Pembrokeshire in Wales, were arrested on suspicion of kidnap.  The two men from Swanage have also been arrested on suspicion of assault. 

All three have been released on police bail while enquiries continue.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come following the incident.

Detective Constable Charlie Soutine, of Weymouth CID, said: “A full investigation is underway into this incident and we are supporting the victim as we make our enquiries.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area and may have witnessed what happened or any suspicious activity to please come forward.

“I am particularly keen to hear from a woman who reportedly approached the men during the incident as she may have important information to assist my enquiries.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who was driving in the area and may have captured anything of relevance on dashcam.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220007291.