Home invasion by two masked men who targeted family

Around 9.45pm on Thursday night, two men forced their way into the home of a 61-year-old man and his 59-year-old wife in Lanark Road, Carluke. They threatened the couple and restrained them before rummaging through the house and making off with cash, jewellery and mobile phones.

The couple were able to free themselves and contact police. Although very shaken by the incident, they were not injured.

The suspects, both of whom were wearing balaclavas, are described as:

1. Male, white, 5 ft 5 to 5 ft 7, slender, and had protruding eyes. He was wearing dark clothing.

2. Male, white, 5 ft 8 to 5 ft 9, of stocky build and was also wearing dark clothing.

Detective Sergeant Tom Kiernan, from Wishaw CID, said: “This was a dreadful incident perpetrated on a respected local family.

“I would appeal to anyone in the local community who may have seen anyone loitering in the general area either on foot on in a car in or near Goremire Road at Lanark Rd prior to the robbery – whether that be just before or earlier that day.

“At this stage we are aware an amount of jewellery has been stolen, so I would ask local businesses, especially those who deal in second hand goods, to keep an eye out for people selling on items and to report them to police if they have any suspicions that the goods may have been stolen.

“Whilst the enquiry is at an early stage, I believe this to have been a targeted crime. There is an increased police presence will be in the area and I would encourage anyone who has concerns or any information that will assist officers with their enquiries speak to them.”

Information can be passed to officers at Wishaw Police Office via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.