A lorry driver suffered cuts and bruising as he tried to stop thieves stealing his truck laden with steel when he stopped his vehicle in West Bromwich.
The 65-year-old was knocked to the ground during the incident in Golds Hill Way.
Police say the driver, who is not being named, got out of his cab, which was parked up at the side of the road, to speak to a man.
But while he was distracted, a second offender jumped in and drove off.
The driver tried to apply the outside brake but was knocked to the ground as the truck sped off, leaving him bruised and dazed.
Detective Inspector Mark Ryder of north Sandwell police said: “The driver sustained cuts and bruises but he’s OK and is recovering at home. We are still looking for the lorry.”
The articulated lorry was last seen heading along the A41 in West Bromwich after the theft at about 6.20am on Wednesday morning.
The incident has prompted warnings from the haulage industry.
Chris Kelly, boss of Keltruck in West Bromwich, said: “Unless the police take this issue seriously, a driver may die as a result of this violent criminal activity.”
Anyone with any information should call police on 0845 1135000.
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