Bread knife threats to driver in attempted theft on A46

The driver of a HGV was parked between Stoneleigh and Kenilworth at around 4.30pm on August 6 when he was approached by a man with an Irish accent demanding that he hand over his fuel card.

When the driver refused, the would-be thief became aggressive and attempted to get into the cab.

The driver, who was able to stop the man getting into the cab, also reported seeing four other men standing on the grass verge nearby.

A second man then approached the cab of the vehicle holding a bread knife, and threatened the victim.

Warwickshire Police, which is now appealing for witnesses to the attack, said it is suspected an attempt was going to be made to steal diesel from the vehicle’s fuel tank.

After threatening the driver and being unable to gain access to his vehicle, the offenders drove off in a white Transit van which had been parked behind the lorry.

It is believed to have had Irish registration plates.

Nobody was hurt in the incident along the southbound road, but police have put out descriptions of the men in hope of warning others and calling witnesses forward.

A police spokesperson said: “The first suspect is described as a slim white man, around 20 to 25-years-old, between 5’5” to 5’7” tall, with short mousey brown hair.

“He was wearing blue jeans and a blue T Shirt, and spoke with an Irish accent.

“The suspect holding the bread knife is described as a white man of stocky build, around 20 to 25 years old, between 5’8” to 5’10” tall, with short mousey brown hair.

“He was wearing a black T shirt and blue jeans, and also spoke with an Irish accent.”

Anyone with information, or who can help track down the Transit van in question, can contact police on 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.