Motorists in Oxfordshire have been alerted by law enforcement following reports of fasteners being placed on roadways to discourage vehicles from stopping.

The hardware was found near the intersection of Donnington Close and Ralegh Crescent in Witney.

Officers from Thames Valley Police retrieved the screws from the carriageway and transported them to the station, though this occurrence has taken place multiple times.

A representative from the constabulary stated on Wednesday, April 22: “Police community support officers Hawkins and Richardson have distributed informational letters to households in the vicinity.

This correspondence follows reports of screws being intentionally positioned on the road surface, seemingly intended to prevent drivers from parking in the neighbourhood.

Officials acknowledge the significant concern this has generated among local residents.

Deliberately placing items such as screws on roadways poses substantial hazards and may result in flat tyres, vehicle damage, and cyclists losing control of their bicycles.

Additionally, there exists potential for harm to pedestrians and wildlife, alongside the possibility of traffic accidents.

Such actions jeopardise public safety and are entirely impermissible.

Should you possess any relevant information, witness unusual behaviour, or discover foreign objects deposited on the roadway, please notify authorities. Our reference code is 43260193454.

Reach Thames Valley Police by calling 101 or submitting a report through their website, and in urgent situations or if an individual faces immediate peril, always dial 999.