Woman kidnapped from the street in Hove

The suspect was described as wearing a black tracksuit, a black baseball cap, and a black balaclava

A police investigation has been launched after a woman was kidnapped from the street in East Sussex.

At about 02:00 BST on Monday, a driver of a dark-coloured Mini parked on the corner of Selbourne Road and Church Road in Hove asked a woman walking on the street for directions.

Sussex Police said the male driver then got out of the car, grabbed the victim, and pulled her into the vehicle - although she managed to escape after a short distance.

Supt Petra Lazar said: “We are aware that the community will be alarmed and concerned about this incident and we have an increased police patrols and presence in the area."

The victim was taken to hospital and was being supported by specially trained officers, police said.

The suspect was described as wearing a black tracksuit, a black baseball cap, and a black balaclava.

Ms Lazar said: “This is a fast moving investigation and every effort is being made to trace the vehicle and the suspect.

“We are appealing for information from any witnesses or from any residents or businesses in the area who have CCTV footage or ring doorbell footage of the incident."