Cigarettes stolen by man who jumped on to moving lorry in Hamilton

Police are hunting a thief who jumped on to the back of a moving lorry and stole a large amount of cigarettes from inside.

Published 13th May 2016

Police are hunting a thief who jumped on to the back of a moving lorry and stole a large amount of cigarettes from inside.

The incident occurred at around 9am on Wednesday as the red lorry was driving through Hamilton, South Lanarkshire.

The thief, who was wearing a high-visibility vest, jumped on to the truck as it was driving along Clarkwell Road in the Hillhouse area of the town.

Police said he opened the doors and filled bin bags with boxes of cigarettes before hopping off near Peacock Cross.

Officers want to hear from anyone in the area who has been offered cigarettes for sale by the man.

A force spokesman said: "Police Scotland is seeking the assistance of the public following a theft from a moving vehicle in Hamilton.

"About 9am on Wednesday May 11, a red lorry was driving along Clarkwell Road, Hillhouse, Hamilton, when a man wearing a high-visibility vest jumped on the back, opened the doors and stole a large quantity of cigarettes.

"The man jumped off near to Peacock Cross and walked off with bin bags full of cigarettes.

"If you have any information about the theft or have been offered cartons of cigarettes from individuals, please let us know in person, on 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.''