A police story out of Nanaimo has all the earmarks of violence associated with the drug world and clearly illustrates how someone involved with drugs in any way can be a target and at risk of being injured or even killed.
On Tuesday Nanaimo police were called to rescue a 24-year-old young man seemingly in distress and handcuffed to a pole in the area of upper Lantzville.
Police quickly covered the man, showing signs of hypothermia, with a blanket and removed his handcuffs prior to having him transported to hospital by ambulance.
When questioned by police the man said as he was leaving a friend's home late Monday night, he was hit over the head with a bat or piece of wood, a bag was thrown over his head as he was being pushed into a red and silver pickup. He added three males proceeded to beat him with sticks and their fists while he was in the truck.
The next thing he knew, he was thrown out of the truck and led a short distance away where handcuffs being placed on his wrists. All of his clothing except his boxers were then removed. His wallet was taken and the males then drove away.
The victim refused to tell police who the males were that kidnapped, beat, and then robbed him nor would he say what the motive was for their actions.
Police believe the incident is linked to drugs, and warn the public that consequences can occur when drugs are involved.
"The only positive thing that came out of this incident for our victim is that he did not die or receive any injuries that require long term hospitalization," said Constable Gary O'Brien, media spokesperson for the Nanaimo RCMP.
