LUNENBURG, N.S. -- A 16-year-old boy in Nova Scotia was held against his will for up to two weeks, police said Thursday as they appealed for public help in finding two men wanted in the case.

The RCMP issued a statement saying they believe the teenager was kept captive for 10 to 14 days based on their investigation so far.

The Mounties said they responded Monday evening to a report from a Lunenburg County resident that a youth was in need of help in the small community of Upper Chelsea, about 130 kilometres southwest of Halifax.

Alice Arnold, a 78-year-old resident of Upper Chelsea, said a teen who was chained at his wrists and ankles arrived at her doorstep that evening wearing only a hooded sweatshirt.

Arnold said she didn't allow him into her home but told him she was calling police. At that point he ran to another neighbour's house who cut the chains, she said.

Investigators said the suspects may be in separate vehicles: a grey 2003 Hyundai Elantra with a Nova Scotia licence plate of FBP 233, and a brown 2002 Chevrolet Venture van with a Nova Scotia licence plate of EZG 581.

Police are looking for 47-year-old David James Leblanc and 31-year-old Wayne Alan Cunningham, who they have charged with forcible confinement and sexual assault.

The RCMP said the boy was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and is safe.