Cops are hunting a masked man who attempted to 'petrol bomb' a Hamilton café.
Staff at Rocco's Deli in Brandon Street were left shaken after the thug ran into the café at 12.30pm on Thursday, May 19 and began pouring what cops believe to have been petrol onto the floor.
The suspect was disturbed by staff and passing police officers before he could take it any further.
After realising he had been caught, the intruder ran off towards Strathmore Road near the council buildings, before escaping the sight of officers.
Police believe this to have been a targeted attack and said if the intruder had not been disturbed he could have caused significant harm to staff and the building.
No one was injured as a result of the incident, however, staff have been left shaken by what happened.
The suspect was around 6ft tall, of slim build, fair hair and was seen carrying a petrol can.
Detective Inspector Jamie Campbell, Hamilton CID, said: “Thankfully no one was hurt by this attack but if he had managed to light the accelerant then this could have caused significant harm to the staff and damage to the building.
“Although no motive has been established for this attack, we believe that, for whatever reason, the café was the intended target.
“We have been checking CCTV and speaking to those in the area at the time and would further appeal to any motorists with dash-cams who may have been in the area between 12.00 and 12.40. They may have captured footage that may assist officers with their enquiries.
“We’d also like to hear from anyone who may have seen the man either before or afterwards.
"It’s possible he had been hanging about the area prior to the attack on the café."
Any information can be passed to officers at Hamilton Police Station via 101. Please quote reference number 1700 of Thursday, 19 May, 2022 when calling. Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Rocco Deli have been contacted for comment.
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