Three masked men threatened a family with weapons before vandalising their home and car during a terrifying break-in.
The thugs forced their way into the property on Innerleithen Drive, Wishaw at around 2.45am on Friday morning.
A 32-year-old man, 29-year-old woman and a 5-year-old child were threatened by the trio during the incident.
Their home was later sprayed with an accelerant before the men, who were dressed in dark clothing, vandalised an Audi parked in the drive way outside.
All of the men were spotted fleeing the scene in a waiting charcoal grey Audi car after failing to ignite the accelerant.
Police have thankfully confirmed that no one was hurt in incident, but officers feared that someone could have died.
Detective Sergeant Graham McAdam, Lanarkshire CID said: “Thankfully the family were unhurt during this incident but if the accelerant had been ignited, lives could have been lost.
“Officers are in the area today and checking CCTV as well as speaking to residents but we are also keen to hear from anyone who has any details about this attack that will assist our investigation.
“The Audi car used by the attackers has since been found burnt out a short distance away on Murdostoun North and South Road, Cleland. If you were in the area and have dash-cam footage then we would ask that you contact police as soon as possible.
“Any information, no matter how small you think it is, could assist our investigation so please call officers at Wishaw Police Office via 101 quoting reference number 0469 of 29 May. Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
