- Vigilante damages speed cameras.
- Concerns about public safety.
- Financial burden for repairs.
An example of the most recent speed camera technology to reach British roads has already been subject to criticism, with one being photographed being severed by a vigilante.
Photographs have surfaced on New Row in Longdowns, Cornwall, of a Jenoptik VECTOR-SR unit, which has been branded the new ‘ultra’ speed camera, with its pole nearly slashed in half. The incident reportedly occurred overnight.
Concerns Amidst Increased Attacks
It is the fourth in a series of recent cyberattacks against speed cameras in this region of Cornwall.
The occurrence ensues subsequent to the disclosure earlier this week. More than 100 of these devices have been deployed by Greater Manchester Police to tackle speeding and other vehicle offences.
Police Response and Public Urgency
In recent weeks, speed cameras in Cornwall have been the target of attacks, compelling the police to increase the number of speed traps in the area in order to prevent additional harm.
Angle grinding seems to have removed a speed camera on the A394 near Helston at Trewennack last week.
That followed two incidents that occurred on the A39 at Perranarworthal, between Truro and Falmouth, a few weeks ago.
A modern VECTOR-SR equipment, which can record more data than a camera, was used in the recent event.
It had been installed on New Row to enforce the 30 mph speed limit in the vicinity.
Since its initial installation, it reportedly has apprehended hundreds of speeding vehicles, some on multiple occasions on the same day, with a significant number of them being taken to court.
Concerns Over Rising Damage to Speed Cameras in West Cornwall
Following its installation in February 2022, the speed camera possesses the capability to observe motorists traveling in both directions. It averted the passage of nearly 700 racing motorists within its inaugural week of operation.
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After 1:40 a.m. on Friday, local Ryan Moses reported to Apex News that he observed the camera pole being attacked. Moses stated, “I spotted it immediately after the incident occurred, when police had just arrived and were searching for the perpetrator.”
Ian Thompson, superintendent of local policing, stated, “We are extremely concerned about the recent increase in criminal damage to average speed cameras in West Cornwall.”
In addition to endangering the public, these actions disrupt the local community and road users, divert resources away from vital police operations, and impose a financial burden on taxpayers for the necessary repairs.
We ask the public to report suspicious activities or contribute information to aid our investigations.
It has also been reported that vigilante attacks on speed cameras can result in damages ranging from £6,000 to £10,000.
