Police are appealing to the public to help locate a white Citroen van in connection with the theft of high-strength controlled drugs

Officers were called around 2pm today (Monday 13 March 2023) to Newville Drive in Withington, to reports a pharmacy delivery driver had been assaulted and the keys to his van stolen.

A young, white man reportedly elbowed the driver in the face, causing him to drop the keys, which the young man then picked up and drove the van away.

The vehicle is described as being a white, Citroen van, registration number WJ63 WOY, and contained approximately £500-worth of medication.

PC Marc Bennion of CoM South district said: “This is an opportunist, violent theft, which has resulted in high-strength medication being stolen.

“We would urge anyone who is approached with any of this medication, to please let us know straightaway. If someone takes this medication who isn’t prescribed it, it can have serious, lasting consequences.

“We want to make sure that the people in the local, and surrounding, areas are kept safe, so we are appealing for anyone who is approached, or anyone who has any information, to get in touch with GMP via 101, quoting log number 1852 of 13 03 2023.

“Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.”