Thames Valley Police said increased patrols in High Wycombe act as a “deterrent” to further crimes and are also designed to reassure the public following the spate of vandalism attacks on cars.

It is believed that more than 200 cars have been vandalised, with a quiet week being disrupted on Tuesday night when there were two incidents of criminal damage.

Justice4Paps criticised the police’s increased presence in the area, saying the force had used the attacks “as an excuse” to step up patrols and target only young Asian men.

In a statement police said: “Thames Valley Police has focused additional patrols in all of the areas affected by the damage and neighbouring areas.

“The patrols not only act as a deterrent to any further offences but provide reassurance to all communities.

“The force responds to each incident as it is reported and officers progress the investigations based on intelligence and witnesses who are residents of these neighbourhoods.”

Last week, a meeting was organised which provided an opportunity for victims of the car crime to meet with Detective Sergeant Percival, who is leading investigation.

Thames Valley Police said that those directly affected by the vandalism were its priority.

Officers have also been speaking with residents while out on patrol, and Local Policing Area Commander Supt Ed McLean met with younger members of the community about what has been happening.

The statement continued: “Some of the early damage included the tag ‘NJNP’ being sprayed onto cars which was thought to mean No Justice, No Peace, following the result of the inquest into the death of Habib Ullah – which was a death by misadventure verdict.

“Latterly, this has not been the case, and we know from the meeting with the victims that they do not feel the criminal damage is now genuinely linked to concerns about the inquest verdict.

“We also know that the family and Justice4Paps organisation do not support the criminal damage and promote a peaceful campaign.

“Officers have met with Justice4Paps representatives who have also been affected by the damage being associated with them and have another meeting organised with them to discuss their concerns.”

A Crimestoppers reward of up to £1,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and charge or offenders linked to the spate of vandalism.

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