Police have once again had to contend with ‘large numbers’ of young people congregating in the Agincourt Avenue area of the Holyland.
Over Monday night into the early hours of this morning (Tuesday), police issued 37 COVID notices, ten prohibition notices and one Community Resolution Notice.
The PSNI says the majority aren’t even students.
This is the latest in a spate of anti-social behaviour which has seen notices handed out.
It’s part of an ongoing operation to address antisocial and criminal activity in the Holyland and Stranmillis areas.
Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said while police, council officers and university representatives engaged with many of the young people, it is critical that young people who have moved to the area take personal responsibility for their behaviour.
“To date, our preliminary enquiries have indicated that the majority of people we’ve issued COVID notices to in the area are not students. Police have a very simple message to anyone considering visiting or attending parties in this residential part of south Belfast; DON’T!” he said.
And he is appealing to parents and guardians to speak with their young people, to ensure they know where they are, who they are with and what they are doing.
“Parents and guardians who allow young people to visit friends or attend parties in this residential area are not helping this situation.
“If you have moved to the Holyland area, you must adhere to the Health Protection Regulations to protect yourselves and others from COVID-19. You must also be good neighbours as the residents of this area who are fed up dealing with anti-social and criminal behaviour on their doorsteps.
“Our robust policing operation will continue over the coming days with our partner agencies, including representatives from Belfast City Council and both universities,” he added.