A 19-year-old man has been arrested after numerous reports of car windows being smashed in Withernsea town centre and surrounding areas.
Humberside Police said the reports involved a man smashing car windows, conducting an untidy search of vehicles and reportedly taking personal property between Sunday, May 3, and Tuesday, May 5.
Following numerous inquiries, the man was arrested on Wednesday, May 6, on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle, criminal damage and vehicle interference.
He has since been released on conditional bail pending further investigation.
The arrest comes after concerns were raised over antisocial behaviour in Withernsea, with several cars targeted just weeks after businesses in the town centre were hit by damage and thefts.
Damage was reported to vehicles near Memorial Gardens, as well as in Park Avenue, Egroms Lane, Kirkfield Road and Queen Street.
South East Holderness ward councillor Sean McMaster said he had contacted local police after reports of car windows being smashed in the town, while one resident described the damage as “mindless”.
Cllr McMaster said: “I am disturbed to learn that there has been a spate of car break-ins, with windows being smashed, in Withernsea over the last 24 to 48 hours.
“I am hoping that the affected residents have made reports to the police. However, I have been in touch with our local policing team to encourage them to look into the matter.”
Cllr McMaster later said he had spoken with one of the town’s local officers and police were aware of the situation.
He said: “Inquiries are at an early stage and any footage or evidence received by the police will be reviewed.
“I would encourage any residents who have information or video or photographic evidence of these incidents to contact the police either through the online reporting form or via 101.
“Any information they receive will be of great help to them.”
He also pointed to the My Community Alert scheme, which officers had been going door-to-door promoting in the area just a day before the incidents were reported.
Cllr McMaster said: “I would further encourage residents to sign up to this as it does provide useful information for residents on how to keep their properties safe and provides updates and alerts of incidents in the area.”
Darrin Stevens, of Queen Street, who was among those who had his car vandalised, said: “It’s just mindless damage. Nothing was taken because there was nothing in the car, but now we’re left with the stress and cost of sorting it all out through insurance.”
Police said local officers investigating the reports were appealing for any further victims to come forward and speak to them when they were out and about.
Anyone with information that may assist ongoing inquiries is asked to contact Humberside Police on 101.
Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.