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Kent Police instituted a 48-hour dispersal order in the city centre on Wednesday 27 March 2024 following reports of teenagers attempting to steal from other teenagers in the Dane John Gardens and city wall areas on Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 March.
Extra patrols will continue to be carried out in the area, with officers engaging with the public to ensure they feel safe and report any anti-social behaviour.
Four boys and a girl, all aged between 14 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of robbery on Wednesday 27 March in relation to the incidents earlier in the week. They have all been bailed pending further enquiries and investigations are ongoing.
Officers stopped and searched a further three people in the city centre on Wednesday 27 March, with two community resolutions completed for possession of cannabis.
High-visibility patrols are continuing and the dispersal order remains in place until 3pm on Friday 29 March, giving officers extra powers to disperse groups and arrest those who refuse to comply.
Inspector Paul Stoner of Canterbury’s Community Safety Unit said: ‘We don’t want to stop anyone enjoying our wonderful city. However, when offences are reported it is right that we take robust action against those involved and make sure the public, particularly children on their way to and from school, feel safe.
Anyone with information about the incidents in Dane John Gardens on Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 March is urged to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/48465/24. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form.
