Gorleston man remanded on Norwich kidnap charges
A man accused of kidnap following police raids on properties across Norwich has been remanded in custody.
Lithuanian mechanic Valerijius Biriukas, 39, is charged with kidnapping Barakiskis Sigitas. Norwich magistrates heard that Mr Sigitas, also a mechanic, was held at a workshop in Denmark Opening in Norwich after the kidnap on November 21.
Biriukas, of High Street, Gorleston, was arrested at Meadow Way, Norwich, as part of a major police operation on Tuesday.
Four men and a woman were also arrested after raids in Norwich, Rackheath, Great Yarmouth and Gorleston. Police are currently considering possible conspiracy charges.
At Norwich Magistrates Court yesterday, prosecutor Philip Allcock said Biriukas had been charged with kidnap in a 'conspiracy context' with a view to making a profit.
Biriukas and Mr Sigitas worked for rival Lithuanian-owned garages in Norwich.
Defence solicitor Debbie Reynolds made no application for bail but said her client may apply for bail at a later date.
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He was remanded in custody to appear at Norwich Crown Court on December 16.
Mr Alcock said: 'The police investigation is ongoing and further charges may be brought against other defendants.'
The other people arrested in connection to this investigation were a 34-year-old woman and 25-year-old man from Norwich, a 32-year-old man from Gorleston, a 21-year-old man from Great Yarmouith and a 28-year-old man from Cromer.
They were arrested on suspicion of kidnap, false imprisonment and conspiracy to kidnap and have been released on police bail while inquiries continues.
