Crime Beat

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A 12-year-old boy shockingly caught carrying a kitchen knife in public claimed it was for his “own protection”.

The youngster was found with the fiveinch blade when police officers confronted him near Dundyvan Road in Coatbridge on Saturday at 3.25pm.

He was reported for his dangerous actions and Inspector Steven Miller, of Airdrie police, is now urging Monklands youths to “think twice” about carrying weapons – and highlighted the dangers of doing so.

He told the Advertiser: “There is never a good reason for weapon carrying. The consequences of using a weapon can be devastating to all parties involved in an altercation.

“The boy found with the knife on Dundyvan Road has been reported for the offence.”

Pair attack man

A man was struck on the face by a pair of vicious thugs in Coatbridge at the weekend.

The male duo set upon their terrified 49- year- old victim on Stewart Street on Sunday.

They arrived at, and fled, the scene in a dark-coloured vehicle, with the victim later taken to hospital for medical treatment.

Police have issued a description of the culprits and are hoping for help from the public in bringing them to justice.

Inspector Miller said: “One male is described as white, aged 25 to 35 years old, 6ft 2in tall with black hair and was wearing dark clothing.

“The second male is described as 25 to 35 years old, 5ft 10in tall, with dark brown hair and was wearing a white top and jeans.

“Anyone with any information regarding this incident should contact Coatbridge CID on the non-emergency 101 number.”

Three cars targeted

Three cars were broken into and vandalised on a trio of Airdrie streets at the weekend – and police are appealing for witnesses.

Between Saturday night and Sunday morning, the three vehicles were targeted on Laggan Road, Arran Drive and Sword Street – all just outside the town centre.

Inspector Miller added: “Local officers are appealing for any information that may assist with enquiries in relation to these reported crimes.

“Anyone with any information should contact Sergeant Stevie Murray at Airdrie police office on 101.”

Vehicle set alight

A car was set on fire near St Margaret’s High School in Airdrie last week.

The mindless firebug lit the blaze at 11pm on Thursday, August 25, when the vehicle was parked on the driveway of a property on North Biggar Road.

The car sustained significant damage and police are seeking anyone who witnessed the act of wilful fireraising to get in touch.

Inspector Miller told the Advertiser: “If anyone in the area saw anything suspicious, any people hanging around the area at the time or have information which may assist with our enquiries, they can contact DC Scott Boyle at Coatbridge CID on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Shoplifters snared

Airdrie police officers on patrol in the town centre have arrested three shoplifters during the last week.

The trio of quick-fingered thieves were all charged with “minor thefts” and reports have been sent to the procurator fiscal.

These arrests are the latest made during increased patrols in the town centre.

Inspector Miller said: “Local officers continue to work alongside partner agencies to create a safer environment for members of the public whilst utilising the town centre area and surrounding facilities.”

Police meeting

Three of Monklands’ top cops met with members of the community to hear their views and concerns.

Inspector Miller, his Coatbridge counterpart Louise Brownlie and Chief Inspector Gavin Russell attended the Coatbridge and Airdrie Local Area Partnerships.

Inspector Miller said: “It was encouraging to see the proposed development of these groups and, in particular, the involvement of the local communities.

“The community policing teams at Coatbridge and Airdrie will continue to listen to the concerns of the local community.

“And Chief Inspector Russell encourages all Monklands residents to get involved in the online Public Consultation Survey to tell us what is important to them.”