A police investigation has been launched after a van was deliberately set on fire outside a property in Wishaw.
The firebugs struck in the early hours of Saturday morning while the Ford Transit Van was parked outside a property in Earn Crescent, Pather.
Three men dressed in dark clothing were seen standing at the van before it went up in flames and was left a burnt out wreck.
The blaze, which took place at around 3.45am, thankfully did not spread to the nearby house which had a person inside.
The fire-starters were seen running down a lane on Earn Crescent which leads to Linnhe Crescent.
Investigators are now appealing for the public’s help to trace the three suspects.
Detective Constable Graeme Stoddart, Wishaw CID, said: "Whilst we believe this to be targeted, there was someone in the house and the fire, which totally destroyed the van, did spread to the house causing damage to the front.
“Thankfully the householder and neighbours spotted the fire and called the fire service, however, to do this at a time when people would be in bed is shocking and a total disregard for safety.
"We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the men at the van or any unusual cars waiting in Linnhe Crescent to get in touch.
"Information, including dash-cam footage from any passing cars, can be passed to officers at Wishaw Police Station via 101.
“Please quote reference number 0521 of 17 October, 2020, when calling. Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
