Young people have been fighting, using anti-social behaviour and causing criminal damage in the Lower Ormeau, Markets and Donegall Pass areas of Belfast in recent nights.
As a result of the fights, believed to have been organised via social media, police are issuing a warning to parents and to the young people involved in the anti-social behaviour.
On Monday night just before 9am, two groups of young people were seen throwing golf balls and other items at each other in the lower Ormeau area. A number of parked cars were damaged as a result of the incident.
Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said time and time again they have asked parents and guardians to ensure they know where their children are, what they are doing and who they are with.
And he said police will continue to add additional resources to the area to prevent and respond to any incidents.
“We suspect some of these recent incidents have been arranged by young people using social media, so this is something parents and guardians really need to address.
“We have consistently warned young people about their behaviour. Getting involved in anti-social and criminal behaviour at best can result in a criminal record which can affect travel, education and employment opportunities in the future. At worst, someone could be seriously injured or killed,” he said.
Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said police will continue to work with local representatives and community workers to address this issue – however he said the community ‘deserves better.’
“Residents of south Belfast should not be subjected to these incidents of criminal and anti-social behaviour.
“I would ask anyone with any information about any anti-social behaviour to contact police on 101 so we can work together to do something about it. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime,” he added.