Police appeal for information after late-night attack
Detectives this week stepped up their hunt for three masked thugs who attacked a 65-yearold businessman in a terrifying street robbery.
The vicious gang made off with at least at £ 1000 in cash after police believe they deliberately targeted their victim, who has been left traumatised by the frightening incident.
The shaken man’s ordeal began when the gang pulled up beside him in a green vehicle shortly after he leapt out of his car.
They grabbed his bag containing money and sped off in a getaway green car driven by a fourth suspect.
Police have made houseto-house enquiries following the incident that occurred in Greenfield Quadrant, Newarthill last Wednesday, at 11pm.
Residents in the area were shocked by the incident.
One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: “I don’t believe that something like that could happen on such a quiet street.
“I’ve never seen trouble before and it’s shocking to think it could go on so close to home.”
Another added: “I didn’t see anything but I had heard that something had happened.
“If you had told me there would be a robbery in this street I would laugh it off.”
Newarthill councillor Peter Nolan was alarmed by the incident and appealed for anyone with information to contact the police.
He said: “It’s worrying for everyone in the area and hopefully the police can do everything possible to find the culprits.
“I’m deeply concerned for the residents and I have friends and family who live nearby so let’s hope the masked men are caught.”
The culprits - described as wearing dark clothes - fled in the vehicle along nearby Mossbank Crescent.
Detective constable Graeme Lawrence, who is leading the investigation, said the robbery was targeted and appealed for witnesses to come forward.
He said: “Thankfully the man was not badly injured, however, this was very distressing for him to experience.
“Officers are currently checking CCTV and carrying out door to door enquiries in the area.
“The suspects knew what they were doing and when and where the man would be at that time.
“It’s possible that they had been hanging around the area or may have been in the street or surrounding area in previous days.
“I would appeal to anyone who saw the robbery take place or who has any information that will assist our enquiry to contact the Criminal Investigation Department at Wishaw Police Office.”
Witnesses should contact police on 101 or alternatively telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, where calls are free and anonymity can be maintained.