A major police probe is underway to identify two men believed to be responsible for a trio of horrific armed attacks in West Lothian.
The first took place at around 6.25pm on Thursday when two road workers were threatened by a pair of armed thugs carrying knives and a bottle in Manitoba Avenue, Livingston.
Just 20 minutes later, an 18-year-old man was assaulted at the underpass on Dedridge East Road, near the Bank of Scotland.
He was repeatedly punched, kicked and had property stolen from him during the sustained attack.
The victim suffered minor injuries and was taken to St John’s Hospital for treatment.
An 18-year-old woman was also threatened during the second assault but was not physically injured.
Officers were then called to the Minerva chip shop in Kingsport Avenue, Howden, following reports of a disturbance at 8.35pm.
Investigators say a man, whose age is not currently known, was assaulted by two men.
They believe the same duo are responsible for the incidents which are being treated as ‘linked’.
The first suspect is described as being white, 6ft 2in, in his mid 20’s and has a slim build.
He was wearing a grey tracksuit and has dark hair.
The second culprit is believed to be white, between 5ft 4in and 5ft 5in, with a slim build and was also wearing similar clothing
Detective Sergeant Graham Garvie at Livingston CID said: “Our enquiries so far lead us to believe that the same two men may be responsible for all three incidents.
“We would like to speak to anyone who either witnessed any of the incidents taking place or anyone who may have been in the vicinity and perhaps saw the two men hanging about.
“If anyone was driving past the areas at the relevant times, can you please check your dash cam footage as you may have captured the suspects unknowingly?
“Anyone with any information that could assist our enquiries should contact police at Livingston via telephone number 101 quoting incident number 2778 of 18 February, 2021.”
Alternatively calls can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.
