Policeman on kidnap charge

The charge was reportedly laid against the two yesterday after days of interrogation by members of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS). The officer, who is on suspension for another matter, was arrested at his Valsayn home on the weekend.

Mahabir, a foreign-used car dealer, was snatched last week at his Couva businessplace by two men who pretended to be customers. He was rescued by police on Monday in some bushes at Wharf Trace, Maracas/St Joseph. A $2 million ransom had been demanded for Mahabir’s safe release.

In an interview with Newsday yesterday, Mahabir described how he was dragged and beaten by his abductors.

At his Princes Town home, Mahabir stated, “Just tell everyone I am safe and happy to be back home.”

He then showed the bruises and swelling on his hands and wrists while speaking from the balcony of his home. The businessman told police that during his three days in captivity he was blind-folded and fed only tea.

“I was dragged and beaten by the men,” Mahabir said.

Pressed for more information, he said he was feeling “tired” and wanted to rest.