POLICE in Wiltshire have released the e-fit of an Irish man wanted in connection with a van robbery involving jewellery worth tens of thousands of pounds.
The victims, a man and his adult daughter, were driving the white Vauxhall Vivaro panel van home at around 5.30pm on Saturday, December 19.
While driving along the A350 between Lackham and Chippenham, the van, which contained the haul of jewellery, was rammed by a medium sized car, believed to be a black Audi.
There was little damage caused, but the victims pulled over to the side of the road, as did the Audi.
While the male van driver and his daughter were talking to the car driver, another individual, believed to be a passenger in the Audi, climbed into the van and drove away.
The Audi also fled the scene, leaving the victims to flag down a passing member of the public, who allowed them to call the police.
The driver of the Audi is described as white with a light complexion, about 35-40 years old, 5ft 9 inches tall, having a solid, stocky build.
He had short, cropped brown or possibly ginger hair and a square, possibly plump face. He also wore blue trousers and a zip-up jacket and is described as having an Irish accent.
The van that was stolen contained jewellery worth tens of thousands of pounds.
It has since been recovered by police, after it was reported abandoned by a member of the public in Great Somerford on Tuesday, December 22.
Sergeant Paul Harvey said: “Police have recovered some of the jewellery stolen in the theft. A number of boxes containing chains and watches were found by a member of the public near a lay-by in Stoppers Hill, Chippenham.”
The black Audi, which had been stolen during a recent burglary in Marlborough, was found burnt out in London.
If you can help locate the white van or offer information leading to the recovery of the jewellery please contact 101 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
