Four men have been arrested after eleven vehicles were destroyed by fire in the early hours of this morning as part of a suspected arson attack.
Neighbours in dismay after alleged arson attack in 'quiet' area
In less than 25 minutes, the vehicles - found in four different roads across Chesham - were allegedly set alight.
Cars destroyed in Higham Road, Chesham.
The fires started in Higham Road and Brushmakers Court at about 2.20am where seven cars were believed to be targeted by arsonists, before a further four were destroyed in Asheridge Road and Pond Park at around 2.40am.
As part of the quickly escalating fire, a nearby industrial building in Asheridge Road was also damaged.
A 33-year-old man, a 35-year-old man and a 36-year-old man, all from Chesham, and a 32-year-old man from Aylesbury have since been arrested on suspicion of arson.*
Det Insp Nick Bell from Local CID at Taplow police station, said: "If anyone in the local community has any information about these serious incidents please contact police.
This is where the alleged arson attacks took place.
“Also, if you are aware of any suspicious activity that has taken place in recent days or information about anyone purchasing petrol cans from local garages.
"I would ask the local community to remain calm and allow the authorities involved to take appropriate action and conduct a full investigation.
"I want to reassure the local community that there are increased patrols in the area and anyone with concerns is asked to speak to a member of their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.
“Any incidents of crime disorder will be dealt with robustly."
Car damage in Brushmakers Court - ARM Images.
As part of a witness appeal, detectives added that one offender was seen wearing a white baseball cap, a long sleeved top, dark trousers and white trainers.
Six fire crews were called from across the region to tackle the blaze, with firefighters using a main jet, four hose reels and seven sets of breathing apparatus.
If you have any information, call police on 101, or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Did you witness this morning's fires? Get in touch with the Bucks Free Press by calling 07824 530126 or email andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk
*Thames Valley Police originaly stated that the ages of the arrested men were 33, 37 and 36 (all from Chesham) and 34 (from Aylesbury).
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