Another laser attack on an Oxfordshire pilot

At around 5.50pm on Saturday, February 22, a large four-engined RAF C17 aircraft was targeted while flying in the area of Cassington and Eynsham, approximately eight miles from RAF Brize Norton.

No injury was caused and the aircraft landed safely. This follows a similar incidents in Chipping Norton and Charlbury.

Investigating officer PC Renee Gabbey-Cristofini, based at Banbury police station, said: “This is the third such incident in the month of February, and I am appealing to anybody with any information about this latest attack to contact police.

“Due to the location of this third incident, this is being linked to previous attacks.

“These incidents are very concerning and pose a real threat to the aircraft, those on board and the wider public.

“I am urging anybody who has any information about this attack, or two previous ones over Chipping Norton and Charlbury, to please contact police.

“These are highly reckless acts and has the potential to cause a serious incident.

“I am sure that somebody will have information that will lead to the arrest and prosecution of offenders.

“Offences of this nature are serious and potentially carry a custodial sentence of up to five years, so I am also warning those responsible to stop.

“Anybody who has any information, or who believe that they know who has carried out this act, should call the 24-hour non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 43200061703.

“Alternatively, you can make a report online, or if you wish to remain anonymous, you can do so by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”