A GANG of masked men hauled a man against his will to an unsuspecting block of flats, kicking off a drugs and ammunition bust.

Police are investigating after a young man was forcibly taken to a flat in Radcliffe by a gang of thugs wearing balaclavas.

Officers were called to Fletcher Court in Radcliffe to reports of 'suspicious circumstances' shortly before 7.30pm on Sunday.

The victim, who is in his 20s, is believed to have been taken to the Radcliffe flat from an address in Whitefield by four men, according to early investigations by detectives.

He was discovered safe by police, but the masked offenders had fled before he police reached the scene and are now nowhere to be found.

Detectives launched an investigation to trace the gang, searching the property in Radcliffe with police dogs, and combing another address in Whitefield.

The investigation is moving quickly, with police already recovering drugs and ammunition in their searches. A 21-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

Police remained at the flat in Radcliffe well into Monday morning and residents reported seeing dog units at the scene throughout the day. It has not yet been revealed exactly why the man is thought to have been taken or how long he might have been at the flat against his will.

Enquiries are still ongoing and anyone with information is being asked to get in touch with police.

Greater Manchester Police said in a statement: "Shortly before 7.30pm on Sunday 4 November 2019 police were called to Fletcher Court in Radcliffe to reports of suspicious circumstances.

"Early enquiries suggest that a man — who is in his 20s — had been taken against his will by a group of men from an address in Whitefield to Fletcher Court. He was later safely located by officers.

"The four offenders – who had fled prior to police arrival - were described as wearing balaclavas at the time of the incident.

"Detectives are currently working to trace those responsible.

"Officers have conducted a search at two properties in Radcliffe and Whitefield and have recovered a quantity of drugs and ammunition.

"A 21-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

"Enquiries are ongoing."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log number 2698 of November 3.

Information can also be passed via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.