Trio arrested for beating 14-yr-old

A 14-year-old boy is recovering in hospital after a prolonged beating in Christchurch overnight, police say.

Two men, aged 18 and 20, and a 15-year-old boy were quickly arrested following the incident, with the older two to appear in Christchurch District Court this afternoon and the younger one being dealt with in Youth Court.

Detective Sergeant John Gallagher said all faced charges of injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and kidnapping.

Mr Gallagher said he believed the boy was subject to an ongoing assault between midnight and 5am on and near Kivers Lane in the central city.

Police urged anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact them.

- NZPA