Masked highwaymen are robbing individuals of their vehicles within the New Forest
Masked highwaymen are robbing people of their cars in the New Forest.
The modern-day Dick Turpins are placing traffic cones in the road and hiding behind trees and in the bushes after night has fallen.
Puzzled drivers stop and get out to lift the cones out of the way before the masked robbers jump in the empty car and speed off.
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Hampshire Police said there could be as many as eight people in the “stand and deliver” gang, hoping to steal two or three cars in one go.
They strike after darkness, wearing balaclavas as they lurk highway-man style at the side of the road for a car to come along.
Hampshire Police said: “We understand the concerns these incidents will have caused within the community, and are doing all we can to investigate them and deal with those responsible.
“If you come across barriers or cones in the middle of a road, causing an obstruction, please remove the keys from the ignition and lock your vehicle before exiting it to move them.
“Please also then report the incident to us.” One of the latest incidents was in Jacob’s Gutter Lane in Marchwood.
The gang leapt from the bushes and stole a Ford Focus car when the driver stopped to clear away cones in the carriageway.
Up to eight people were spotted crouching in hedges at the spot. The car was later recovered, said police.
Officers have been increasing patrols in Eling, Marchwood, Hythe and Dibden.
But one resident accused police of being “always late to the party”.
They said: “Regular patrols would be useful. Not just turn up after the crimes have been committed and the culprits have moved on to a new patch to loot.”
However, local district councillor Richard Young told police: “Thank you for doing what you reasonably can to try and alleviate community concerns in our otherwise usually peaceful village.”
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