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Police on Tuesday arrested an Indian businessman for allegedly masterminding the abduction last week of a compatriot and his 16-year-old son.

Police now believe the kidnapping and associated ransom demand was linked to an alleged overdue, Bt38-million debt.

They have an arrest warrant for an Air Force sergeant thought to be involved, too.

Last Friday Indian landlord Rattana Kumar, 52, and his 16-year-old son, Rasim, were abducted from Krisana Mansion in the Lumpini area. Five kidnappers arrived at the apartment building early in the morning hooded and claimed to be police officers.

Demands for Bt40 million were made and the father released to collect the money. Nevertheless, the kidnappers released the son unharmed later in the day.

Metropolitan Police chief Lt-General Adisorn Nonsi told a news conference on Tuesday investigations discovered Rattana owed Bt38 million to Indian garment businessman Arun Patela, 31.

A red Honda vehicle used by the kidnappers matched one belonged to a friend of Arun. The owner assisted police in their inquiries and Arun later admitted his involvement, Adisorn asserted.

Arun has reportedly told police the debt was for goods worth Bt38 million. The debt is a year old, he told investigators.

Arun is said to have admitted engaging Air Force Flight Sergeant First Class Somkuan Rimsa and friends to collect the money.

A source said Arun, an Indian-Italian businessman, had dealings with Rattana for more than five years.

Arun is reportedly well known at night-entertainment venues as a "big tipper" with good contacts among officials.

The Nation