DETECTIVES are investigating a series of attacks on railway ticket vending machines across England including at Micheldever.

British Transport Police believe one gang is responsible for the attacks in Hampshire, Norfolk, Hertfordshire and Essex.

The Micheldever TVM was targeted on Monday October 15 at around 3am. The attack caused damage estimated at more than £17,500.

Det Con Nick Thompson said: “The group of men targeted rail stations in the early hours, with one of them breaking into the machine while others acted as lookouts.”

The gang returned to Hampshire on Monday December 17, attacking a TVM at Hook.

DC Thompson added: “We believe this gang is responsible for all six attacks, which have caused an astonishing £50,000 of damage to train operating companies’ property.

“Not only was the damage left by these vandals extremely costly to the railway, their actions made machines unusable, causing passengers immense inconvenience and frustration.

Anyone who information is asked to contact BTP on 0800 405040 quoting background reference B9/LNA of 09/01/2013.
Information can also given to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.