A group of masked thugs carried out a terrifying series of assaults in Paisley this week which included abducting a man and taking him to a cemetery.

At around 9:25pm on Thursday, December 2 three men were assaulted by the group on Broomlands Street at Maxwellton Street.

One victim, aged 21, was then forced into a car and driven to Langfaulds Cemetery on Baljaffray Road near Glasgow.

There, at around 9:50pm, the victim was subjected to further violence as well as being threatened and having a number of items including money and his mobile phone stolen.

Suspects left the scene in a dark grey BMW X3 and a black Audi TT.

The victim received treatment for his injuries at hospital and was later released.

Police have now launched a major investigation and are appealing for any information regarding the incident.

Detective Inspector Ian Ross, of Paisley CID, said: “The level of violence and intimidation shown during this incident is shocking. We believe this was a targeted attack. 

“We believe there were six suspects involved in this attack and they were seen driving a dark grey BMW X3 and a black Audi TT.

“I’d urge anyone who witnessed the incidents in Broomlands Street or Langfaulds Cemetery to come forward and speak to officers. We’re especially keen for anyone who may have captured the incidents on dash cam or private CCTV to check their systems and provide relevant footage to us.

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3412 of 2 December. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.