Police investigating a series of arson attacks in which cars were set on fire have made a number of arrests.
Nottinghamshire Police have been investigating a spate of incidents in the Worksop area over the last couple of months where cars were badly damaged or destroyed.
In many cases, witnesses and CCTV footage revealed suspects fleeing on bicycles or motorbikes after the incidents.
This morning (Monday), officers carried out coordinated raids at seven local addresses.
Six boys, aged 13, 14, 15, 15, 15 and 16, plus an 18-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arsons and conspiracy to steal motor vehicles.
They remain in police custody.
Detective Inspector Stuart Temple, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Arson is an extremely serious offence. For the last couple of months we have been investigating a series of arson attacks against vehicles in the Worksop area. Many of these have involved motorcycles we believe to have been stolen.
“Understandably these incidents have caused a degree of local concern and we have been working since to track down the person or people responsible. Additional officers have also been carrying out uniform and plain-clothed patrols in the affected area as part of a concerted effort to put a stop to the incidents.
“We have since identified a number of suspects and this morning carried out a series of coordinated arrests at local properties. Seven people were arrested and a number of mobile phones and other personal possessions were seized for further examination.
“We take incidents like this extremely seriously and will continue to dedicate whatever resources are necessary to bring those responsible to justice. Anyone with additional information on these occurrences is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
