Appeal to trace female motorist

An unidentified woman motorist has emerged as a key witness in a kidnapping in Belfast, police revealed today.

She stopped to help a man who had earlier been held hostage while a female bank worker was ordered to leave a substantial amount of cash at an undisclosed location in the city a month ago.

Three men have been charged in connection with the ransom demand, but detectives disclosed today that they are trying to trace the woman driver who stopped her car at Divis Street and offered to take the man to police.

Inspector Alan Dickson, who is heading up the investigation, said he was confident she had information which could help with inquiries.

He said: “This lady helped the victim shortly after the ordeal and we would like to speak to her. As a witness as she may hold vital information which could assist the investigation team.

“She may have seen cars in the area which may be connected to this kidnap.”