Police have increased patrols in the Oakbank area of Perth after spates of vandalism in the residential area over the last two weekends.
The anti-social behaviour has resulted in a car windscreen being broken, plant pots being smashed and even house “For Sale” signs being removed and dumped on land nearby.
It is understood that a group of youths is being held responsible for the acts of vandalism in Oakbank, with many elderly residents apparently bearing the brunt of the attacks.
As a result, Police Scotland’s Tayside Division has decided to carry out extra patrols in the area and a spokesperson for the force last night said that officers were following a “positive” line of inquiry.
Officers have been concentrating on several roads and areas in Oakbank, with increased police patrols visible in Oakbank Road, Broomhill Avenue, Muircroft Drive, Muircroft Terrace, Viewlands Road West, the park behind Oakbank Community Centre, and an area of Fairview School.
Councillor Willie Wilson, one of the representatives for the Perth City South ward, said he had received reports both from local residents and the police concerning the vandalism in Oakbank, and he stressed that he is keen for those responsible to be caught.
“I am working closely with the police and local residents to try to identify the perpetrators and see those involved arrested,” he told The Courier.
“I myself take these acts of vandalism seriously as many of the residents are fairly elderly and find this distressing. We want the culprits caught and want to ensure these acts of vandalism do not recur.”
He continued: “Unfortunately, one or two residents have been targeted on more than one occasion and I would appeal to the public, but particularly the police, to liaise closely with residents to gather evidence that will lead to arrests.”
A police spokesperson commented: “There have been a number of acts of vandalism/anti-social behaviour in the Oakbank area of Perth over the last two weekends. These have included a car windscreen being broken, plant pots being smashed and ‘For Sale’ signs being removed and dumped nearby.
“Extra patrols have been carried out in the area and inquiries are ongoing to trace the persons responsible, with a positive line of inquiry ongoing.
“Any person with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”