Graffiti tag spotted more than ten times in a 1.15 mile stretch of Southampton

Residents across Southampton, Hedge End, Eastleigh, and Portsmouth have noticed the recognisable ‘DMOE’ tag on fences and derelict buildings.

The tags have been seen on buildings, street signs, bus stops and even on the side of unfinished towers.

From Quayside Road near Northam Bridge to Marine Parade, near to St Mary’s stadium, the tag was spotted more than 10 times in varying styles and designs. 

As reported in the Echo in March of 2023, police launched an appeal to the public to help identify the culprits

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Speaking last year, a police spokesperson said: “Ultimately graffiti falls under the offence of criminal damage and like any criminal offence, we would always encourage you to report that to us.

“We do not clean up the graffiti, but we do actively scope the area for CCTV, speaking with residents and ultimately look to positively ID the individuals committing the offence.”

Since that time the graffiti taggers have not slowed down in their ruthless pursuit to paint the city in spray paint. 

The police have now issued the following update on the 2023 appeal to find the taggers.

A spokesperson for the force said: “There were three reported incidents of graffiti in the Hedge End area between February 1, 2023 and April 1 2023. 

“Despite enquiries being made, no suspects were identified with these three reported incidents, but patrols were stepped up in the affected areas at the time.

“The cases have since been filed, but can be reopened if further evidence comes to light in the future.”

Officers added that although they do not clean up the graffiti, people looking to have graffiti removed can contact their relevant local authority.