"Man's Car Stolen in Astley Bridge After He Visits His Son"
Key Highlights :
Residents of Astley Bridge in Bolton, UK, were shocked to hear that a car had been stolen from the area after its owner had gone to visit his son. On Sunday evening, the man had parked his blue Mercedes near the Cotton Works on Blackburn Road, and had locked it before entering his son's house. However, a short time later when he returned, the car was gone with no explanation as to how the thieves had gained entry.
Afzal Babariya, the son of the car's owner, spoke of the inconvenience this theft would cause for his family. He said: “My dad had gone to see my brother. He had parked the car off the cotton works on Blackburn Road. He parked it and he went into the house for around 20 minutes. He came out 20 minutes later and it was gone. We have no idea how it was taken. He had gone in and locked the car. We do not know if it was an opportune theft or if he was being watched.”
Babariya went on to explain that his father had several medical conditions and that the theft would be a major concern until the insurance company provided a hire car. He said: “My dad has got a few medical conditions. He has to go to and from hospital and to appointments. It is going to be a concern until the insurance company sorts out a hire car.”
The 41-year-old tax accountant also commented on the safety of the area, saying: “I live in Astley Bridge as well, I would probably say it is a safe area. It has had a few thefts but I had not heard of any for a while but then when it happens to you it is a shock.”
The theft has been reported to Greater Manchester Police. Last week, another vehicle was stolen from Lever Edge Lane a short time after the owner parked it, and that car was also locked.
Babariya urged anyone with information on the theft to contact the police. He said: “Police have just recorded the crime incident, we have not really heard much else back from them. I would urge anyone with information to contact the police.”
