Marham serviceman targeted in '˜attempted abduction'- armed men on the loose

Police seal off a section of Ladywood Road close to RAF Marham in Norfolk, after a serviceman was threatened with a knife near to the base. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday July 21, 2016. Officers were on patrol around RAF Marham on Wednesday evening after he was threatened with the blade. See PA story POLICE Serviceman. Photo credit should read: Sam Russell/PA Wire EMN-160721-132319001

Descriptions of two men, both said to be of Middle Eastern origin, have been issued this afternoon as the investigation continues.

Detectives say they cannot rule out it being an attempted terrorist attack, but say they are also looking at other possibilities.

The serviceman, who is said to be in his late 20s, was approached while out running on Squires Hill shortly before 3pm yesterday.

Police say one of the men shouted at the serviceman and attempted to grab him before falling to the ground.

The second assailant, who was armed with a knife, went to his accomplice before they both fled. The men fled in a dark people carrier and remain at large.

The first suspect is said to be aged between 20 and 30, around 6ft tall, of athletic but stocky build, with dark hair which was long on top and a well-groomed beard. He was of Middle Eastern origin in appearance with a dark skin tone and wore dark casual clothing.

The second suspect is described as between 20-30 years old but younger than the first suspect and of a slimmer build. He was approximately 5ft 10, clean shaven with short dark hair. He was also of Middle Eastern origin in appearance and wore a white t-shirt and dark shorts.

Det Supt Paul Durham, of the joint Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team, said a short time ago: “I can confirm we are treating this as an attempted abduction and detailed enquiries are being carried out at the scene to establish the full circumstances.

“The motivation for the attack remains unclear at this time, and whilst we are currently unable to discount terrorism, there are a number of other possible hypotheses.

“We are therefore carrying out a thorough investigation to understand what has happened, why and who is responsible.

“Visible patrols continue in the area and officers will be carrying out house-to-house enquiries and detailed searches of the scene in Squires Hill, which remains closed for the time being.

“I’m keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the vehicle described above in the King’s Lynn area but particularly towards Marham between midday and 6pm yesterday and would urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem to them, to call police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”