BY JORDAN REGNIS
Police have charged a fifth man over his alleged involvement in the kidnapping of a man at Rutherford earlier this year.
On February 28, police located a 38-year-old man near Greta suffering serious injuries.
He was treated by paramedics before being taken to Maitland Hospital for the treatment of facial injuries, bruising, lacerations, and a stab wound to his leg.
Police allege that the man was forced into a vehicle in the Rutherford area on February 27, before he was taken to a premises in Metford where he was allegedly drugged and assaulted, before later being released.
Following extensive inquiries three men – aged 26, 35 and 53 – were charged over their alleged involvement and remain before the courts.
A fourth man, aged 32, was also charged; however, no longer remains before the courts.
Following further inquiries by police, a fifth man was arrested on Main Road, Cardiff, about 3.40pm yesterday.
The 29-year-old was taken to Belmont Police Station where he was charged with kidnap in company with intent.
He remains behind bars after being refused bail during his appearance in Belmont Local Court today.
CCTV footage released earlier this year as part of a public appeal for information. Picture supplied by NSW Police