Abandoned vehicle found after frantic search linked to alleged abduction
Emergency groups were sent racing across Middelburg tonight following reports of an abduction, with a suspicious vehicle just found abandoned on the N11.
A vehicle believed to be linked to an alleged abduction has just been found abandoned on the N11 Hendrina road, just beyond the N4 bridge.
Emergency groups have been driving rapidly in and around Middelburg since approximately 17:30 after messages began circulating on WhatsApp groups claiming that a child had been abducted in Eastdene.
A photograph of a silver Audi A4 was widely shared, while voice notes alleged that the vehicle had been seen on the N11 past Rockdale and later on the old Belfast road.
Further reports circulating on other groups claimed that the victim was in fact an adult businessman, adding to the confusion. Messages also alleged that the victim was in the boot of the vehicle and that shots had been fired during the incident.
At the scene where the vehicle was found, it was reported that someone had been shot and that an ambulance was required. However, the person had not yet been located at the time of publication.
A source told the Observer that the Audi’s front and rear number plates were checked and appear to have been cloned. The front registration is linked to a white BMW, while the rear number plate is registered to a John Deere tractor.
This is a developing story. More information will be published as it becomes available.
- The Observer has contacted local police regarding the alleged abduction. They indicated that information will be released as soon as possible, because they are part of the investigation.
