A 15-year-old girl was subjected to a seven-hour ordeal after being forced into a van at knifepoint in what police describe as a 'random' abduction. The incident occurred on Bradgate Road in Bowdon, Altrincham, Greater Manchester, at around 6.45pm on Monday evening.
The teenager was walking alone when she was bundled into a vehicle. She reported being threatened with a knife during the abduction. The girl was reported missing at approximately 9pm on Monday and was eventually found in the early hours of Tuesday in a hotel car park in Knutsford, Cheshire.
Cheshire Police located the vehicle at the Cottons Hotel and Spa car park, where the teenager was discovered inside. A 56-year-old man was arrested at the scene and remains in custody for questioning. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the suspect is a white male and that the incident is believed to be random, with no prior connection between the victim and the suspect.
Detectives have been granted an extension to hold the suspect for further questioning. Specialist officers are supporting the girl and her family. Police have assured the public that there is no wider risk to the community.
