Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was struck with a screwdriver-like implement and robbed by three men at a lay-by on the A556 in Cheshire yesterday (Friday, November 22).
The victim, a man in his forties from the London area, pulled into the lay-by believing the suspects' Mercedes Sprinter van was a police vehicle because of its blue flashing lights.
Three men got out of the van and attacked the victim, striking him with a screwdriver or similar object to the leg, and stole his mobile phone and items of jewellery during the incident which happened between 1.30pm and 1.50pm.
The victim suffered minor injuries and was taken to Macclesfield Hospital to be checked over.
It is possible that the victim may have struck one of the offenders to the stomach during the incident, causing injury.
The victim had been travelling on business along the A556 heading away from the motorway, towards the direction of Northwich.
Somewhere between the Tabley Roundabout (Junction 19 of the M6) and the traffic lights, where traffic can turn left for Knutsford, he saw a Mercedes Sprinter van behind him, with what he described as blue flashing lights in the grill area at the front of the vehicle.
Police are keen to hear from anybody who saw anything of note while driving past the large lay-by on the A556 at which the incident occurred, or the victim's silver BMW or the Mercedes Sprinter van parked in the lay-by, or both together.
Police would like to re-assure the public that it is unusual for an unmarked police vehicle to stop motorists. On the few occasions where this might be necessary, if the driver has any concerns, they should wait in their vehicle until approached by the officer who will be able to show a warrant card through the window.
If you can assist in any way, please contact Detective Constable Craig Lindfield at Wilsmlow CID. Information can be passed via the police non emergency number 101, or anonymously on the Crimestoppers Hotline 0800 555 111.
