POLICE have arrested five teenagers in connection with attacks on cars across West Oxfordshire.

Between May 13 and 20, about 40 vehicles were damaged in Witney, Carterton, Burford, Crawley, Eynsham, North Leigh, Curbridge and Brize Norton. Windows were smashed and bodywork damaged.

Officers from Carterton arrested four youths yesterday. They are an 18-year-old from Carterton, a 17-year-old from Ducklington, a 16-year-old from Witney and an 18-year-old from Brize Norton.

They were interviewed and released on police bail until June 28.

A second 18-year-old from Carterton was arrested today and also bailed until June 28.

PC Steve Patrick, of Carterton police station, said: "As well as these arrests, two high-powered, gas-propelled ball-bearing guns have been recovered and we believe at least one of these was used in these incidents.

"We did not previously have any evidence to prove claims these vehicles were damaged by projectiles, but these guns indicate this is probably the case.

"I believe these arrests will lead to a halt in these crimes. We have taken swift action in detaining these youths and their arrest sends out a stark message to anyone else tempted to get involved in such stupid behaviour."

PC Patrick is interested in gathering any further evidence in connection to these offences. He can be contacted via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.

If you don't want to talk to police and don't want to leave your name, call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.