Arson investigation launched as three HGVs are deliberately set alight on industratial estate

Two offenders were caught on camera entering the yard of haulage firm Messenger Express, on Pimbo Industrial Estate, at around 8.20pm on Tuesday.

Three heavy goods vehicles were deliberately set alight, causing damage described as "substantial".

It followed an incident at around 11.50pm on January 10 where another vehicle was reported to have been set on fire, again causing serious damage.

Det Con Kate Molloy, of Lancashire Police, said: “We have launched an arson investigation following an attack on high value HGVs at a unit in Skelmersdale. It is the second such incident in a number of weeks and we are keen to identify those responsible.

“In the most recent incident, two offenders dressed in dark clothing have entered the site with incendiary devices, smashed the window of the HGVs and set alight three vehicles. They have then made off on foot towards Pimbo Road.

“We are appealing for any witnesses or drivers with dash-cam footage who were on West Pimbo between 8pm and 8.30pm on that day to check their footage.

“Likewise, if you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area, or someone in your household returned home that night smelling of smoke, please come forward.”

Anyone with information about what happened is asked to call police on 01695 566113, quoting log reference 1348 of February 2.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

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