A CITY MP is calling for police to investigate criminal damage at a park occupied by travellers.
A gate and lock were damaged shortly after the group of about a dozen caravans arrived on council land off Kesteven Way, north Hull.
Now Shadow Crime and Security Minister Diana Johnson, who represents Hull North, has written to the chief constable of Humberside Police urging her to make sure the crime is properly looked into.
In her letter, Ms Johnson said: "I am aware Humberside Police are currently working with Hull City Council and partner agencies to ensure the land is returned to its proper legal use as soon as possible.
"I am informed the travellers initially gained access to this land via the emergency access road in Wawne Road, and later by an entrance in Bude Road and the maintenance access point in Kesteven Way.
"I understand the bollards preventing vehicular access to the land have been removed, and a locked gate has been damaged.
"Given the obvious local concern, I would be grateful if you could confirm Humberside Police will conduct a full and vigorous investigation into the apparent criminal damage at this site, and prosecute those found responsible to the full extent of the law."
Ms Johnson said it was about making sure the law was applied fairly.
She said: "I want the police to do everything possible to investigate the criminal damage that has taken place, to find and prosecute those responsible.
"The criminal law applies to everyone, whatever their lifestyle."
Hull City Council has told families living near the site that steps are being taken to evict the travellers, who moved onto the land on Monday afternoon.
It sent a letter out warning people to be careful if approached by door-to-door salesmen, along with a copy of a code of conduct for travellers.
A council spokesman said: "We're aware that travellers have set up an illegal encampment.
"We are currently working with our multi-agency partners, following our procedures and have started legal proceedings.
"We will continue to monitor this area and would encourage any residents with concerns to report them."
Ms Johnson's letter was addressed to Chief Constable Justine Curran and also sent to police and crime commissioner Matthew Grove.
A force spokesman said: "Humberside Police are conducting an investigation to determine if any criminal offences have taken place.
"We will be continuing to work with our partner agencies."
