Man abducted and attacked by balaclava-clad gang in murder bid

A man is in hospital after being abducted and assaulted by a gang wearing balaclavas in Edinburgh.

Police are treating the “targeted” attack, which happened at around 10.45pm on Wednesday, as attempted murder.

Officers were initially called to a disturbance involving men fighting with weapons in Claremont Court.

One man was seen being forced from his vehicle, a grey Audi S5, into a second vehicle, described as a dark hatchback that had blue flashing lights activated on the dashboard.

That vehicle then left Claremont Court along with two other vehicles – the grey Audi S5 and a white van.

The man who was forced into the back of the hatchback was found injured a short time later on nearby McDonald Road.

It is believed he was assaulted inside the car, which was then driven at him as he exited the vehicle and before the car fled the scene.

The man’s injuries are not life-threatening.

Later, at around 1am on Thursday morning, officers found the injured man’s car – the Audi S5 – on fire on Magdalene Avenue in Portobello.

Detective inspector Kevin Tait said: “The level of violence and intimidation shown during this incident is shocking and thankfully the victim was not left seriously injured. We believe this was a targeted attack.

“The suspects involved in his abduction from Claremont Court are believed to have arrived at the scene in two vehicles, the first a dark coloured hatchback, and the second a white van. Witnesses have reported there being four men, all wearing balaclavas.

“I’d urge anyone who witnessed the incidents in Claremont Court or McDonald Road to come forward and speak to officers. We’re especially keen for anyone who may have captured the incidents on dash cam or private CCTV to check their systems and provide relevant footage to us.

“The dark coloured hatchback vehicle the suspects used had blue lights activated on top of the dashboard at the front windscreen. This was not a police vehicle. I’d urge anyone who knows more about this vehicle, or could help us trace it and those connected to it, to get in contact with officers as soon as possible.”

Those with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 and quote incident number 3764 of 6 October. An anonymous report can be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.