Officers have arrested two 15-year-old boys in connection with a spate of vandalism and break-ins across Dundee and Invergowrie.
Police Scotland said yesterday two teenagers had been traced following an investigation into a number of incidents involving damage to vehicles and theft.
A spokesman said the two boys had been released pending further inquiries “for legal reasons” but would not give any additional information.
Officers investigated a break-in at Scotmid on Invergowrie Main Street on January 17.
Two days later, a father scared off a group of teenagers after he discovered them climbing into the back seat of his unlocked car in Greystane Terrace.
A number of NHS staff then had their cars targeted in a night of chaos which saw 16 vehicles damaged in the space of two hours.
Workers reported more vehicles being “badly damaged” the following day.
The incidents were spread across Mariner Drive, Gemini Crescent, Luna Place, Wurzburg Court and Medipark car park.
In one of the most severe attacks, a boulder was used to smash into the passenger window of a white BMW and holes were gouged into the bodywork.
Officers said they believed all of the incidents may have been linked to one group.
The break-ins led to increased police controls in Invergowrie, Dundee Technology Park and the areas surrounding Ninewells Hospital, and staff were asked to submit any dashcam footage which might help to identify the culprits.
Carse of Gowrie Conservative councillor Angus Forbes organised a meeting at Invergowrie Parish Church on Thursday night with police sergeant Nicky Forrester and around 40 local residents.
Police Scotland confirmed the arrests on Friday and pledged to provide further updates in the next few days.
A spokesman said: “We can confirm that two 15-year-old boys have been arrested in connection with the recent series of vandalisms in western Dundee and Invergowrie.
“Inquiries are continuing, and for legal reasons they have been released pending further investigation.
“We should have a further update regarding this in the next few days.”
