Police in Manchester have issued an urgent appeal for information following an “opportunistic, violent theft” that saw a pharmacy delivery van containing approximately £500 worth of “high strength” medicines stolen.

Greater Manchester police said officers were called to Newville Drive in Withington at 2pm yesterday (March 13) after reports that a delivery driver had been assaulted and his vehicle stolen.

GMP said: “A young, white man reportedly elbowed the driver in the face, causing him to drop the keys, which the young man then picked up and drove the van away.

“The vehicle is described as being a white, Citroen van, registration number WJ63 WOY, and contained approximately £500-worth of medication.”

PC Marc Bennion said: “This is an opportunist, violent theft, which has resulted in high-strength medication being stolen.

“We would urge anyone who is approached with any of this medication, to please let us know straightaway. If someone takes this medication who isn’t prescribed it, it can have serious, lasting consequences.

“We want to make sure that the people in the local, and surrounding, areas are kept safe, so we are appealing for anyone who is approached, or anyone who has any information, to get in touch with GMP via 101, quoting log number 1852 of 13 03 2023.

“Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.”