POLICE are investigating a spate of vehicle fires across the Wimborne area in the early hours of Monday morning.
Dorset Police has sought to “reassure” residents the incidents are being investigated after 12 vehicles and a property were damaged during the spree with patrols stepped up.
Between 1am and 3am, multiple car fires in Broadstone, Wimborne and Merley were reported to the police.
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The locations with reported incidents were Wentworth Drive, Oakley Hill, Oakley Road, Merley Ways, Stour Walk, New Borough Road, Grove Road and Leigh Road.
Detective Sergeant Simon Austin, of County CID, said: “These incidents have affected a large number of victims in the wider Wimborne area and we are aware that this will cause concern.
“I would like to reassure our local communities that officers are currently investigating all reported incidents and are making every effort to identify those responsible.
“People will see visible police activity as officers are making house-to-house and CCTV enquiries.”
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Police have appealed for any witnesses or anyone who might have seen suspicious activity in the roads mentioned to contact them.
DS Austin added: “Also, I would urge anyone who may have home CCTV installed in those areas and anyone with dashcam to please check their footage to see if there is anything of relevance that could help us.
Late-night trail of destruction as at least a dozen vehicles are torched
“Additional neighbourhood officers will be in the area who can be approached for advice and support.”
Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230073977.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.