Police have launched a hunt for a suspected vandal after a shocking wave of traffic light attacks caused disruption across Cambridge and surrounding villages. Around 50 sites have been targeted since 4 May, with nearly 200 traffic detector units damaged in what officials say is a reckless spree putting road safety at risk.
Now officers have released a CCTV image of a man they urgently want to identify.
The attacks have hit some of Cambridge’s busiest roads, including Cherry Hinton Road, Perne Road, Mill Road, Milton Road and Coldham’s Lane, as well as locations in Fen Ditton and Horningsea.
One of the most alarming incidents saw a crossing outside Park Primary School in Histon targeted — a route heavily used by children and families.
The damaged technology is crucial for keeping traffic flowing safely. Detector units identify waiting vehicles and pedestrians so traffic lights can react to real-time conditions.
But when the equipment is vandalised, signals fall back to fixed timers — leading to major congestion, delays and possible safety risks.
Drivers across Cambridge have already reported worsening queues and frustration as engineers scramble to repair the damaged systems.
Police are urging anyone who recognises the man pictured in the CCTV image, or who has information about the incidents, to come forward.
Anyone with information should contact police online or via 101 quoting reference 35/33284/26.
