Two more suspects arrested in kidnap case

Qing Zhao was kidnapped from her Auckland home on March 7.

Two men being sought in the connection with the kidnapping of Auckland woman Qing Zhao a fortnight ago have been arrested in Gisborne, police said today.

The two men were picked up by police patrol overnight and have been charged with the same offences as two other men who have already appeared in court over the abduction.

The second pair are due to appear in Gisborne District Court this afternoon.

They are charged with kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary and commission of a crime with a firearm.

All four men are expected to reappear in Manukau District Court in Auckland on March 31

Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Grimstone said the news had brought "tremendous relief" to the victim and her husband.

He said they hoped to rebuild their lives and move back into their Howick home -- the scene of the kidnapping -- in the near future.

"This is a perfect opportunity to thank all persons who have assisted in this excellent result, including the media and the Chinese community," he said.

"I would also like to acknowledge the vigilance of the Gisborne police."

Three men, allegedly armed with a knife and a pistol, took Mrs Zhao from her house in the early hours of March 7. A fourth person remained outside.

A $1 million ransom demand was issued, but no money was paid. Mrs Zhao was later found dumped, bound and gagged in an industrial estate in Onehunga.

The two men arrested previously appeared in court last week. They have interim name suppression.

The latest arrests come after police released details and photos on Sunday and Monday of two other men being sought.

- NZPA