Man charged over kidnappings in Syria

A 26-YEAR-OLD man has been charged with the kidnapping of a British photographer who was held hostage in Syria, Scotland Yard said last night.

Shajul Islam is accused of keeping John Cantlie, who has worked for the Sunday Times, and Dutch journalist Jeroen Oerlemans captive for about a week in the turbulent state.

Islam was arrested last week after arriving at Heathrow airport on a flight from Egypt and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today.

A 26-year-old woman who was held with him has been released without charge.

The pair were arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism on 9 October.

Anti-terrorism laws give police up to a week to question suspects without charge.