Gardaí hunt gang after woman kidnapped

A massive manhunt was under way today after an woman was kidnapped by a five-man gang in a pre-dawn attack.

The victim, in her 50s, was snatched by force from her home in the town of Graigcullen, Co Carlow, shortly before 5am.

Gardai said the men drove a white transit van with a yellow flashing light attached, similar to that of a works vehicle.

It is not yet known what direction the vehicle the travelled in.

A force spokeswoman said investigating officers believe that at least one of the men was known to the woman.