Appeal launched after thieves got into cars and threatened drivers
Two men in Sandwell were threatened after thieves got into their cars with them and forced them to hand over cash.
An elderly man was threatened with violence and forced to drive a thief to Hill Top, Great Bridge after a man got into his passenger seat in the car park of Great Bridge Asda.
Stopping in a cul-de-sac, the robber ordered the driver to swap seats, before driving them to Harvesters Road in Willenhall. He told the 78-year-old to get out of the car and then drove off.
During the journey, the robber – described as white, in his 30s, 5ft 8ins tall and wearing a light-coloured jumper - demanded money from the elderly shopper.
The incident took place on December 17, between 3am and 3.30am. The car us a blue 02 plate Rover 45 and has not been found.
Officers are investigating if the robbery may be linked to another crime, which happened six days earlier on December 11, between 7.30pm and around 7.50pm.
A fast-food delivery driver was returning to his grey Toyota Avensis on Whitley Street, Wednesbury, when he was approached by two men, asking for a lift to the bus station.
The driver declined and the men then got into the car, threatened him with a knife and ordered him to drive towards Willenhall.
A short time later, they ordered the driver to stop so they could swap places with him, before driving to Dibble Close where they got out and ran off.
During the journey, the men – both white with one described as being in his 30s, wearing a grey jumper with a spider tattoo on his neck and the other as being of a large build and wearing a black jumper – stole the victim's watch, a small amount of cash and some food.
Detective Sergeant Ed Trimbee said: "Robberies like this – where drivers are targeted in their cars – are unusual and thankfully, neither victim was hurt.
"These are serious offences though and we are determined to catch those responsible. We really need the public's help to get these robbers off the streets.
"There's a possibility these offences may be linked and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have noticed a blue Rover 45, which is unfamiliar to them, turn up on their street in the last few days.
"We'd also like to hear from anyone who might recognise the identity of the men in the December 11 offence from the description given – particularly the man with the distinctive spider tattoo on his neck."
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
