AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after vehicles had their tyres deflated across the city.

Police say several lines of enquiry are being explored, including “significant pieces of CCTV footage” and the collection of forensic evidence from leaflets left at the scene.

The majority of the incidents in Brighton and Hove under investigation happened overnight on the weekend of March 7 and 8, according to police.

Inspector Nicky Stuart, of Brighton and Hove’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We understand the impact these crimes are having on the community, and I would like to reassure the public that our officers are working round the clock to catch those responsible.

“This type of behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated in Brighton and Hove, and while we have seen a marked drop in the number of incidents since the weekend of March 7/8, any such occurrences are unacceptable.

“As far as we are aware, all of the incidents so far have been from tyres being deflated, rather than slashed or punctured.

“We are exploring several lines of enquiry, but as always the public are our eyes and ears. If you see anything suspicious, have relevant dashcam, doorbell or CCTV footage, or any information that could help, contact police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Extinguisher.”

On Wednesday, a hybrid SUV in Wilbury Avenue, Hove, had its tyres deflated as part of climate activists’ action against “gas-guzzling luxury cars” to raise awareness about carbon emissions.

The Argus: The SUV in Wilbury Avenue, Hove, had its tyres deflated The SUV in Wilbury Avenue, Hove, had its tyres deflated

Tyre Extinguishers, who are thought to be a splinter group of Extinction Rebellion, said it wanted to “make it impossible to own an SUV in the UK’s urban areas”.

A leaflet left on the SUV apologised to the car owner for targeting their cars but have said to not take it “personally”.

The leaflet read: “You’ll be angry. But don’t take it personally. It’s not you, it’s your car.

“We did this because driving around urban areas in your massive vehicle has huge consequences for others.

“That’s why we have taken this action. You will have no difficulty getting around without your gas guzzler, with walking, cycling and public transport.”