VANDALS have attacked 16 cars, mainly taxis, by throwing missiles as they were stopped at traffic lights.

Cleveland Police made three arrests after youths attacking the vehicles on Ormesby Road, Middlesbrough, between 8pm and 11pm last night (Thursday October 16).

Police say they have received several reports of youths throwing missiles at moving vehicles around the Park End, Albert Park and Ladgate areas of town in recent weeks.

To stamp out the problem officers have issued dispersal orders, mounted both high visibility and covert patrols and used mobile CCTV cameras.

Speaking about Thursday night's attacks, Detective Inspector John Wrintmore said: “The majority of these vehicles were taxis, which were damaged by youths targeting the vehicles as they were stationary at traffic lights.

"Three juvenile males were arrested and remain in police custody as neighbourhood officer and detectives work together to investigate the incidents.

“We are determined to take all necessary measures to ensure road users and the local community are not subjected to such mindless criminal acts These actions are nothing less than criminal, which means those caught will be prosecuted and will be subject of a criminal record. They are also putting vulnerable individuals in danger.

“The message is if you get involved in this type of behaviour you can expect to be arrested. I have written to numerous parents whose children have been identified as being possibly on the fringes of this type of behaviour and I continue to appeal to all parents and carers to ensure you know where your children are and what they are doing.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the non-emergency police 101 number.