Van set on fire

Coatbridge police officers are appealing for witnesses after a van was set alight last week.

The white Mercedes vehicle was parked on King Street in Bargeddie when the destructive firebug started the blaze at around 1.45am on Tuesday, July 25.

Inspector Louise Brownlie described the van as being “extensively damaged” and the incident is being treated as “wilful fire-raising”.

The Coatbridge inspector added: “Members of the public who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area at the time, or know the identity of the culprit, can contact local officers on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Last week’s fire occurred following a spate of thefts from vans across Monklands.

Brazen thieves have been targeting vehicles parked in “commercial areas and housing estates” in Airdrie and Coatbridge over the last few weeks.

The crooks are entering the vans and making off with goods from within, with the owners only later discovering the stolen items.

Inspector Brownlie added: “There has been an increase in the number of thefts from vans parked in commercial areas and housing estates throughout Monklands.

“We advise the owners and drivers of such vehicles to take steps to ensure that the vehicles and their contents are secure before leaving them unattended. Efforts should be made to remove all equipment and property.”