Police Crackdown Launched as Kids Run Riot in Portsmouth’s Commercial Road
Dispersal Order Targets Troublemakers
Frustrated by months of chaos, Portsmouth police have finally stepped up, imposing a tough dispersal order in Commercial Road from Thursday evening. Anyone refusing to leave when told, or who returns, faces arrest. The move is a clear warning to those causing mayhem in the area.
Neighbourhood Teams Join the Fight
Officers from Fratton, Baffins, and Nelson joined the force last night to clamp down on anti-social behaviour. Police acknowledge it’s half-term and kids are out and about, but issued a stern reminder: “We’re not the fun police. Be mindful of where your children are and what they’re up to around the 1 centre.”
Shops and Community Under Siege
- Staff at Premier newsagents report nightly havoc by kids, some as young as eight.
- Workers face abuse, theft, and smashed furniture almost every evening.
- 1 centre supervisor reveals they shut doors by 4.30pm daily to keep kids out.
- “The kids are a riot down there. Most nights it’s chaos – stealing, yelling abuse, chucking things,” she said.
Police Push Back with Section 34
Inspector Peter Smith explained the dispersal order is a fresh weapon against the troublemakers. “Recent reports include drug use, shoplifting, and harassment of the public and shop staff,” he said. “Though it involves a small minority of youths, it’s severely spoiling life for locals and businesses. This simply won’t be tolerated.”
Smith confirmed extra patrols are already underway. The Section 34 order empowers officers to ban individuals from Commercial Road for 48 hours. Refusing to leave is a criminal offence, and arrests have already been made.
“We will keep a strong presence while the order lasts and will consider extending it if needed,” he added.
