AN eighth man has been charged in connection with an alleged kidnapping in Southampton. 

Edison Hoxha, aged 26 years, of no fixed abode, has been charged with kidnap.

This comes after police responded to reports of an aggravated burglary at an address in St Andrews Road at around 3.23am on March 12. 

It was said that a group of men had gained entry to the property using an axe before forcing a man into a vehicle and speeding off.

Officers attended and the man has since been located.

A cannabis farm was later found by police inside the address. 

Approximately 100-150 cannabis plants were found and a number of bags containing cannabis with an estimated street value of £40,000.

Hoxha appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.

He was remanded to next appear at Southampton Crown Court on April 16.

Seven men have already been charged with offences relating to this incident. They are:

  • Spartak Demiraj, 30, of Brittania Road in Southend on Sea - charged with kidnap.
  • Brixiado Halilaj, 20, of Portland Street, Southampton - charged with kidnap.
  • Zef Gjoka, 29, of Nightingale Road, Southampton - charged with kidnap.
  • Aranit Topalli, 27, of St Andrews Road, Southampton - charged with kidnap and producing Class B drugs.
  • Armando Topalli, 27, of John Thornycroft Road, Southampton - charged with kidnap and possession of a firearm with intent.
  • Lavfrim Ismaili, 27, of London Road, Southampton – charged with kidnap.
  • Arben Lleshi, 30, of White Star Place, Southampton – charged with kidnap.