A man was stabbed in the bottom in what police are treating as a kidnapping.

Police were called to a property in New England Street, Brighton in the early hours of this morning following reports of an assault.

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: “Officers received a report that three men, who were known to the victim, forced their way into the property and attacked him before making off with him in a silver Mercedes.

“He was later found in Lewes Road with minor injuries.

“A search for the suspects, involving officers from the road policing unit, was launched but they were not located.”

Detective Inspector Steve Warner from Brighton and Hove CID said: "We are in the early stages of this investigation and it is not yet clear why the victim, who received a superficial stab wound to his buttocks, was targeted.

"Officers will be continuing with local enquires and viewing CCTV. If anyone has information about the incident they are asked to call 101 quoting serial 93 of 2/8 or alternatively leave an anonymous message with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.