A VIDEO has emerged on social media appearing to show masked vandals smashing up police cars in Coventry.
After we sent the video to West Midlands Police a spokesperson told us it is aware of multiple recent incidents in which police vehicles have been damaged by vandals.
The video depicting three separate incidents first shows a balaclava-clad vandal running up to a parked police car and smashing all of the windows.
Another shows a group of louts hidden by tracksuits and hoods smashing the front window of a stationary car.
The final video shows a masked cyclist riding past and throwing an object through the window of a police van.
The force had previously condemned an attack on a police car in Coventry in February as ‘mindless vandalism’.
The latest string of alleged attacks, claimed by those who posted it to be in Coventry, has provoked a strong response on social media – with many claiming the incidents took place in Canley.
The video – uploaded to the Birmz is Grime Facebook page – has been shared more than a thousand times.
Comments posted on Spotted Coventry City Facebook page range from ridiculing the vandals to questioning why those filming the incidents did not notify the authorities.
Ian Griffin on Facebook said: “Being soft on misconduct is the best way to guarantee increasing misconduct.”
Another user Danny Lennon said: “One day these kids are going to need the help of the police but the police won’t turn up because someone has smashed their cars.”
Susan Osullivan questioned: “Why film it? Why not call the police?”
Julie Cope posted: “This city is becoming a place where thugs, thieves and scumbags can do exactly what they want and no-one can stop them.”
Richard Smith joked: “This is one reason council tax has gone up.”
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “We are aware of a number of recent incidents of police vehicles being vandalised in the Coventry area and are investigating.
“Anyone with information should get in touch via Live Chat, at west-midlands.police.uk, or via 101.
“Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
