Man questioned over abduction in Co Down

A man was being questioned today by detectives investigating an abduction blamed on republicans in Co Down.

A man was being questioned today by detectives investigating an abduction blamed on republicans in Co Down.

Mr Brendan Rice (38) was grabbed at his home in Newcastle, Co Down, at the weekend by a gang of masked men.

It is believed Mr Rice was beaten before being bundled into a white van and driven away. He was released the following day.

Mr Rice's brother, Sean, could give no reason for the kidnapping but claimed mainstream republicans carried out the operation. "This was carried out by the Provisional IRA, I have no doubt about that," he said.

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Police confirmed a man had been arrested over the incident.

PA