POLICE have launched a kidnapping-for-ransom investigation after a Venezuelan national was abducted during what was supposed to be a late-night business transaction in central Trinidad.The victim, identified as 30-year-old Albert George Navarro Arcia, was taken by armed men on Friday night after being invited to a meeting in the Waterloo/Carapichaima area to conduct a deal involving the sale of cheese.According to information received by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), Arcia arrived at the location shortly before 11 p.m. in a Nissan B13 car, accompanied by an 18-year-old man.Moments after their arrival, they were confronted by several other men.Investigators were told that Arcia was forced into a car, which then drove off.His companion fled the scene without injury and later made a report to police.Hours later, relatives of the abducted man were contacted via WhatsApp by individuals claiming responsibility for the kidnapping.A ransom demand of US$10,000 was made for Arcia’s safe release.Police said efforts are continuing to pinpoint the exact location where the abduction took place, as initial attempts to identify the scene were unsuccessful.Police are also trying to trace those behind the kidnapping.