Man arrested on suspicion of threatening to kidnap two rent boys involved in Paul Flowers scandal

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A man has been arrested on suspicion of threatening to kidnap two rent boys involved in the Paul Flowers scandal.

Manchester Evening News reports the 29-year-old is accused of sending threatening texts to one of the escorts used by the former Co-op Bank chairman.

A Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman said: “On Thursday, police in Salford received a report that a 31-year-old man had received threatening text messages to his mobile.

“On Friday, a warrant was executed at an address in Radcliffe and a 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to kidnap.

“He has been bailed pending further enquiries.

“This investigation is at an early stage and enquiries into the nature of the threats are ongoing.”

There is no evidence to suggest that the 29-year-old was working on behalf of Paul Flowers, but police are investigating.

Mr Flowers was arrested last week after being filmed allegedly handing over money for hardcore drugs.

The 63-year-old gay Methodist minister and former Labour councillor was released on bail last Friday evening.

Mr Flowers was the chairman of the Co-op Bank from 2010 until May this year when he stepped down as the bank hurtled to near financial collapse.

On Friday, it was reported Mr Flowers had resigned from the Co-op Group over concerns about his expenses.

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