Valsayn businessman kidnapped

PETER DE FREITAS, a 21-year-old Valsayn businessman who was kidnapped while in company of a friend at Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook, around 3 am yesterday, remained in the custody of kidnappers who have demanded $3 million for his return. Emile Ali, 25, who was also kidnapped with De Freitas was released at the Caroni Cremation site around 4 am yesterday. Reports revealed that around 3 am yesterday, Ali and De Freitas went to the Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook branch of Republic Bank to make a deposit in the night safe. While there, they were confronted by four masked men who bundled them into a car. Both men were blindfolded and robbed. Ali told Caroni Police that he was dropped off at the Cremation Site around 4 am and allowed to go free. He managed to make his way to the Caroni Police Station where he reported the matter to Cpl Remy. Ali said he had no idea where the men took De Freitas. He also revealed that he was not beaten or threatened. Ali was interviewed by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and allowed to return to his home. When Sunday Newsday visited the home of De Freitas a man eating an apple and wearing a red jersey said that relatives had nothing to say on the matter. He casually returned to speaking on the telephone. Outside the house several friends and relatives of De Freitas were at the house to offer comfort to the parents of the kidnap victim.