The Crossmyloof man abducted from his home in September was returned safely to his family after police found him more than 200 miles away in Manchester.

Almost a month after Javed Mukhtar, right, was kidnapped from his Shawmoss Road home he was returned unharmed. His family originally feared for Mr Mukhtar’s health, as the 58 year-old father of three is a type 2 diabetic and requires medication to control his condition.

Businessman Mr Mukhtar was traced as the result of an intensive four-week operation by Strathclyde Police officers, supported by officers from other police forces.

Detective Superintendent William Prendergast, leading the investigation, said he was delighted that Mr Mukhtar was not harmed.

A total of 12 people have appeared in court charged in connection with the abduction. None of the accused made any plea or declaration and all 12 have been remanded in police custody.

DS Prendergast added, ‘Our enquiries will continue in an effort to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident. A huge amount of work was carried out behind the scenes and officers worked tirelessly. This is still very much an active investigation. I am therefore unable to divulge what operational decisions were made or what tactics were used. The full circumstances will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.’