Police rescue British pair held hostage for ransom

A BRITISH couple who were kidnapped in India have been rescued by police, officers said last night.

The pair were abducted on 29 May in Chennai and apparently held for a £300,000 ransom.

The two, from London, have not been named but are safe and well, a Scotland Yard spokesman said.

The Metropolitan Police launched a joint investigation with counterparts in Chennai after receiving a report the couple, reportedly of Sri Lankan origin, had been kidnapped.

Last night, Scotland Yard said: “The Metropolitan Police Service have been working with Indian authorities to secure the release of two British nationals kidnapped in Chennai since 29 May.

“The investigation was led by the Chennai police with the MPS offering support to the family in London.

“The couple have now been rescued and are safe and well.

“This remains an ongoing investigation in both countries and therefore no further details are available at this time.”

The Bangalore-based Deccan Herald reported that the couple’s daughter, who also lives in London, had received a phone ransom demand for £300,000.