Strong showing from Mountford Chambers in “one of the UK’s most complicated kidnap investigations in recent times.”

Five members of Mountford Chambers have appeared in one of the biggest kidnap cases of recent times. Barry Kogan, Tom Edwards and Jim Tilbury all acted as leading counsel with Sebastian Winnett and Mark Watson as juniors. Jim Tilbury, leading Sebastian Winnett secured one of the few acquittals in the case.

The level of violence used was described as “beyond belief” and was coupled with ransom demands in the hundreds of thousands of pounds. Guns, Rambo knives, a smoke grenade and an attack dog were all used. The main victim was tortured, water boarded and injured while trussed and bound with handcuffs and cable ties. Other victims were scalded with boiling water and suffered severe injuries, including genital injuries.

The case was enormous with thirteen defendants standing trial. The investigation translated into over 30,000 pages of evidence as well as a volume of unused material. The evidence covered cell site, telephone, DNA, CCTV as well as lengthy ABE interviews for the complainants. The trial and retrials both lasted in excess of three months.

Barry Kogan and Mark Watson were instructed by Eddie Tang of IBB Solicitors. Tom Edwards was instructed by Chris Hartnack of John Fuller and Partners. Jim and Sebastian were instructed by Matt Bliss of Stryders Law.

The case has not been reported until recently as reporting restrictions were in place. The case has now been reported across all leading news agencies:

BBC
Daily Mail
Standard
Independent
LBC
Sky News
South Wales Police