West Midlands Police have released footage and a 999 call showing the moment six men armed with machetes kidnapped a driver in Alum Rock, Birmingham, after boxing in his red Mercedes with two other cars. Two passengers escaped with slash wounds, but the driver was dragged out, beaten, and forced into the boot of a black Volkswagen Passat.
The dramatic incident, which took place on a residential street, was captured on camera and features in the latest episode of Channel 5's documentary series Major Crime Unit. The episode, broadcast on October 19 and available on catch-up, follows the force's Major Crime Unit as they investigate the brutal kidnapping and ransom case.
Distressed 999 call reveals terror
A distressed male witness called 999 during the attack, telling the emergency call handler: "Quickly, quickly. They've chased him to a car, there's five or six people fighting. Please, send someone."
He continued: "They've put someone in the boot. They've kidnapped him. They've kidnapped him. Quick! Black Passat. They've just kidnapped him."
The call gives a real-time account of the violence unfolding, with the witness clearly describing the number of attackers and the vehicle used to flee.
Police investigation and specialist unit
West Midlands Police issued a statement about the case, explaining that the injured men provided little information to officers. The investigation was led by Detective Inspector Francis Nock of the Major Crime Team 1, who had to reconstruct the attack from the evidence left behind.
The Major Crime Unit, based at Perry Barr, is a specialist team that draws on expertise and resources from across the force, including homicide teams, investigation teams, forensics, the County Lines Taskforce, and the Economic Crime Unit. The unit focuses on the region's most serious crimes, including firearms, drugs, and attempted murder.
The series is produced by Raw Cut Television in partnership with West Midlands Police. In their statement, the force noted that the unit's recent efforts have helped Birmingham shed its title as the gun crime capital of England and Wales.
Public release and viewing details
The episode aired on Channel 5 on October 19 and remains available to view on the broadcaster's catch-up service. The release of the footage and 999 call forms part of the documentary's aim to show the work of the Major Crime Unit in tackling serious offences.
West Midlands Police have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made in connection with the kidnapping, and the investigation continues.
