Victims lucky to be alive after two carjackings in the same street

Carjackers suspected of being members of an organised crime gang have struck twice in five days in the same street in Farnworth.

The Manchester Evening Newsreports that in both incidents drivers had lucky escapes after trying to stop their vehicles being stolen. Both of them ended up throw to the ground at speed - luckily they were unhurt.

There has been no trace of either vehicle and the victims are convinced a gang is stealing them to be stripped for parts or put on false registration plates to be moved abroad.

One victim was carried on the bonnet of his car for 100 yards and the other was flung to the ground as he grappled with the thief who drove away at speed.

The thief is described as being white, of a thin build with gaunt features and with stubble. He was said to be about 5ft 8in tall, with short dark hair and wearing light blue jeans and a striped top with either blue, white or cream stripes.

The second incident was just after 5.30pm on Wednesday outside building suppliers Cooper Clarke.

Yard foreman Justin Dean, 42, was locking up when his BMW was stolen.

Police appeal for help to identify callous carjacker Police are trying to establish if both incidents are linked.

Even though the method of theft was identical they suspect two different carjackers may have been involved.

Detectives are investigating if the carjackings are linked to organised crime gangs or opportunists.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 5608 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.