Eco-vandals have let down the tyres of more than 80 SUVs in a protest against “gas-guzzling” cars.
The activists – who call themselves “The Tyre Extinguishers” – struck in St Mawes and Falmouth in Cornwall.
Each target was left with an explanatory note.
It said: “attention – your gas guzzler kills”.
The group claimed it was a peaceful protest.
It added: “It is not our intention to incite harm but rather catalyse change and ensure a safer environment for all.
Devon and Cornwall Police said enquiries were ongoing after “multiple reports of car tyres having been deflated in residential streets”.
The note left by the protestors read:
“We have deflated one or more of your tyres.
“You’ll be angry, but don’t take it personally.
“It’s not you. It’s your car.
“We did this because driving around urban areas in your massive vehicle has consequences for others.”
The Tyre Extinguishers said later in a statement:
“SUVs [sports utility vehicles] are a danger for the climate, safety and our health, all so that a privileged few can flaunt their wealth in their shiny status symbols.
“Because our Government has failed to protect us from this worsening threat, we have opted to protect ourselves.
“This is an act of retaliation and is intended as a peaceful and non-violent demonstration to draw attention to the presence of grossly inappropriate private vehicles in our town.”