Police appeal after attempted car-jacking in Lothians

Detectives say a man was seen entering a white Peugeot 208 in the Lime Grove area at around 9.30pm last night while a teenager was sat in the passenger seat. The suspect then attempted to drive off but was unable to after the passenger successfully removed the keys from the ignition. He then ran off but was pursued by the suspect who attacked him and attempted to snatch the keys.

The suspect then left the area but not without first attempting to push the car from the street before eventually giving up.

He was last seen heading in the direction of Craigshill East Road before being lost from view.

The man is described as white, approximately 19-years-old and around 5ft 6ins tall. At the time of the incident he wore a grey hooded tracksuit with the hood up partially covering his face, grey tracksuit bottoms and dark coloured Adidas trainers.

Detective Constable Iain Duncan of Livingston CID said: “Although the victim was not seriously injured the brazen nature of this crime is quite remarkable.

“We are pursuing various lines of enquiry including a review of the local CCTV network and carrying out door-to-door enquiries.

“However, I’m now appealing to anyone in the local community who can help identify the suspect to come forward.

“I’d also be interested to hear from anyone who was in the Craigshill area of Livingston on Wednesday night and who noticed any suspicious behaviour.”

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.