Man charged with kidnapping after allegedly threatening taxi driver with knife

A man has been charged with kidnapping after a taxi driver was held at knifepoint in an hour-long ordeal in Melbourne’s north west.

Police have charged a 22-year-old Melton man with kidnapping and attempted armed robbery after he allegedly held a taxi driver at knifepoint and demanded a ride in Melbourne’s north west.

The young man was allegedly picked up by the driver on Church St in Melton at about 6,30am on Monday, before he pulled a knife and threatened the driver.

The driver allegedly complied, travelling more than 80km east to Hampton Park as instructed.

A Victoria police spokeswoman said the young man was arrested a short time after allegedly exiting the vehicle on Oak Tree Drive in Hampton Park.

“(He) was arrested nearby a short time later and police seized a knife,” she said.

On Tuesday, the 22-year-old was charged with kidnapping and attempted armed robbery over the alleged incident and is expected to face the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

“Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could assist police should contact Crime Stoppers,” the spokeswoman said.

The news comes after a horror spree of violence in Melton which saw a man gunned down in public on Saturday and a terrifying home invasion the night before.

Crime Stoppers can be reached on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au