Police have launched an investigation after firebugs set a speed camera on fire just outside of Dundee.
It is thought that the fixed camera went up in flames on Thursday night at Petterden on the A90.
It appears the device, which monitors southbound traffic, became alight after the culprit lit grass beneath it.
The ground surrounding the camera was charred and there were clear black marks on the instrument itself.
Angus deputy area commander Inspector Ally Robertson said: “We’re still investigating the incident, but what I’d like to stress is that these cameras are all about safety of the public and reducing incidents of speeds there — it’s in everybody’s interests that we have safe roads.
“We regularly patrol in vehicles to make sure we have good management of the roads and the safety camera partnership is a vital part of that.
“Now that camera will be out of action for a while.
“These cameras cost a lot of money, which comes from public funds, and the overarching reason for their existence is to reduce casualties.”
Speed cameras are sometimes labelled as money-making devices, but Insp Robertson insisted the Petterden one was installed because it covers a potentially dangerous area.
He said: “We are talking about a road which has a sweeping downhill bend where your speed can creep up and there’s a number of junctions, too, including a farm track.
“It’s even more important just now because at this time of year the harvest season starts soon.
“So we need the speed to be under control to help people get on the road safely from the junctions.
“Some people have issues with speed cameras but we’re doing really well this year in terms of road collisions and fatalities.”
A spokeswoman for Police Scotland asked for any witnesses to come forward with information.
She said: “Police Scotland can confirm that officers are making inquiries after a fixed safety camera was damaged on the southbound carriageway on the A90 Aberdeen to Dundee Road at the Petterden junction between 9.15pm and 10pm on Thursday, September 24.
“Anyone who was in the area during this time and saw or heard any suspicious activity is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.”
The speed camera affected is called a Gatso, which usually costs about £20,000 to install.
However, that can rise to £40,000 if they are located in a rural location which requires a 240v power supply to be fitted as well. They are able to measure the length of vehicles for which there are different speed limits.