Thanet Antisocial Mayhem: Dispersal Orders Locked In for Weekend
Thanet is on edge this weekend as Kent Police keep dispersal orders active across Broadstairs, Margate, and Ramsgate. This crackdown follows a spike in antisocial chaos, including underage drinking, street brawls, and brazen aggression towards shop and restaurant staff.
Five Arrests After Weekend Mayhem
Between Thursday 19 and Saturday 21 June, police made five arrests, including a teenager charged with assaulting an officer. Authorities have also spoken to the parents of five youngsters, handing out formal warnings to nip trouble in the bud.
One girl was slapped with a Community Protection Warning, placing strict controls on her movements to stop further trouble. Officers confiscated underage booze during patrols, determined to clamp down on street drinkers.
Tough Dispersal Orders in Place
Under these powers, police can eject anyone aged 10 or over suspected of causing a nuisance. If offenders return within the restricted timeframe, they face arrest and harsher penalties.
The orders cover town centres and beaches in Broadstairs, Margate, and Ramsgate and will stay effective until Sunday afternoon, 29 June. Police warn the restrictions could be extended if trouble flares up again.
Joint Effort to Curb Disorder
Kent Police are teaming up with British Transport Police, Thanet District Council, and other forces to keep unrest in check. They’re especially wary of troublemakers coming from nearby towns.
Chief Inspector Ian Swallow, Thanet’s District Commander, said:
“While it’s a small number of offenders, we know the impact on the community, and it won’t be tolerated.”
“Parents must talk to their children and remind them to behave. We’ve confiscated alcohol and are meeting parents to discuss their child’s conduct.”
“These measures are about keeping Thanet safe. We will maintain high-visibility patrols and urge the public to report any crime or disorder.”
Need to Know
- Dispersal orders apply to anyone aged 10 and over
- Zones covered: Broadstairs, Margate, Ramsgate — town centres and beaches
- Orders active until Sunday afternoon, 29 June
- Returning to restricted areas during dispersal can lead to arrest
Spot antisocial behaviour? Call Kent Police on 101 or report online. For emergencies, always dial 999.
