Specialist dogs trained in drugs detection will be on duty tonight (Friday) at Belsonic following last week’s incident when young people were so drunk they required medical attention.
Police want parents to speak to their children ahead of the event featuring Tiesto at Ormeau Park. Police will also confiscate alcohol from anyone under 18 years of age.
Translink was forced to stop two trains last week due to revellers becoming ‘drunk and abusive.’
“Folks please have a word with your teenagers if they are off to Belsonic tonight .
‘We will be out and about in force over the next few nights to stop any anti social behaviour on the rail network. It comes after three people were taken to hospital for medical treatment suffering from minor injuries and the effects of alcohol at last Friday’s event,” said a spokesperson.
“Some of the people involved “were so drunk they required urgent medical treatment”.
“We do not want to see a repeat of these incidents tonight.”
The police spokesperson said young people who consume large amounts of alcohol put themselves at greater risk of becoming victims of crime, including sexual assault.
“Be warned that those who disregard the law will end up with a criminal record.
“Being drunk in a public place can attract a court fine of up to £250, with the potential for a criminal record. Police can also issue a fixed penalty of £40 for being drunk in a public place and £80 for disorderly behaviour or behaviour likely to cause a breach of the peace. We will also have our specialist drugs dogs on duty, who are incredibly effective at detecting even the smallest amounts of drugs,” he said.
Coaches approaching the venue will be monitored.
Drinking on buses is illegal and can pose a major road safety risk by distracting the driver.