Article from: www.thenewspaper.com/news/34/3426.asp

3/13/2011

Italy, Saudi Arabia, UK Speed Cameras Painted, Pilfered, Pelted
Italian speed cameras covered in paint, a Saudi Arabian device is grabbed and an English camera is bashed four times.

Vigilantes in Ardea, Italy last week covered a brand-new speed camera in blue paint, preventing it from issuing any citations. The message, "Ah ah ah! you'll never take my money," was also scrawled over the automated ticketing machine to mock city officials, Corriere Della Sera reported. In Pomezia, eight speed cameras have been covered in paint in the past few weeks. Vigilantes also painted over the speed camera warning signs, forcing judges to cancel fines when challenged in court.

In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia vigilantes grabbed a mobile speed camera unit, known as Saher, while its operators had left to take part in evening prayers. The large device, about the size of an outdoor garbage can, had been placed on a sidewalk where it was set to issue automated citations. Police launched a substantial investigation but have no idea who might be responsible, Al Yaum reported.

Vigilantes in Staffordshire, England attacked the same camera on the A34 in Stone four times last month, the Staffordshire Newsletter reported. The assaults left the battered device exposed to the elements. The first hit happened on February 16 followed by attacks on the 18th, 19th and 21st, all from between 10:30pm and midnight. Police have no idea who might be responsible.