Concerns have been raised among parents and local organisations in Croydon after an online message circulated warning about planned gatherings involving groups of secondary school pupils at major town-centre locations over the coming weeks.
The community awareness post, shared on social media, claims that young people—primarily from Years 9 to 11—have been encouraged to meet at the Whitgift Centre and Centrale on several dates, including late February and early March. A number of local schools were referenced in the message, although there is no official confirmation that any schools are directly involved.
The post described the gatherings as being framed online as a “war-style competition”, which has prompted concern among some parents due to the wider context of youth violence and knife crime across London.
The author stated the intention was not to create alarm but to encourage parents, schools and safeguarding professionals to remain vigilant and consider precautionary arrangements. Suggestions included collecting children directly from school where possible, encouraging attendance at supervised after-school activities until pick-up, and avoiding travel through the town-centre shopping complexes on the specified dates.
The message also referenced previous tragedies involving young people in Croydon, noting how quickly situations involving large groups of teenagers can escalate.
Local authorities and police have not publicly confirmed any organised incidents linked to the claims at this stage. However, community warnings of this nature often circulate when concerns arise about potential meet-ups arranged through social media platforms.
Parents are generally advised to speak with their children about personal safety, group behaviour, and travel arrangements, particularly when large gatherings are anticipated in busy public areas.
Anyone with concerns about youth safety or potential disorder is encouraged to contact local policing teams or safeguarding services for advice and support.
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