Calmore man arrested and Bransgore man warned after ball bearings shot by catapults from moving vehicles in Sopley

A MAN has been arrested amid an investigation into ball bearings fired by catapults from moving vehicles in Sopley.

Police responded to reports of criminal damage in the village between 2.30pm and 4pm on Friday 16th December.

A spokesperson for the Hampshire force said: “It is alleged that persons were involved in the firing of ball bearings using a catapult from moving vehicles at other vehicles.”

Officers arrested a 46-year-old man from Calmore on suspicion of causing criminal damage, using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour and burglary.

He was later released on bail until 16th March as enquiries continue.

The driver of one of the vehicles involved, a man in his 70s from Bransgore, was handed a Section 59 warning for anti-social use of vehicle.

This means any vehicle used by him which is involved in any anti-social activity over the next 12 months can be seized.

The police spokesperson added: “Ringwood Neighbourhood Policing Team continue to target criminal and anti-social behaviour in Avon Valley; conducting warrants, making arrests, completing searches and seizing property and seeking to bring those to justice who cause harm and loss to our communities.”

Those with information about crime in their community should contact officers on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, with 999 dialled in an emergency.