The area surrounding Meadow / Armagh Community Centre, Newry has been constantly plagued by anti-social behaviour in recent weeks between fires being set in the middle of the road to stones being thrown at people and passing cars.
Over the last number of weeks Meadow and Armagh Road community association having been calling out the nuisance and intimidatory behaviour of youths in the area via their social media page.
Issues highlighted include items being set ablaze in the middle of roads, fireworks being set off around the community centre and groups assembling en-masse on e-scooters, hurling verbal abuse at anyone who dares challenge the behaviour.
Residents living in the area have also shared their experiences in the comment section with one saying “you couldn’t walk around this area anymore”.
One incident, mentioned by a resident, included a pile of clothes (that had been discarded there for some days) being set alight followed by the same group allegedly trying to set fire to fences at Bosco pitch. The incident reportedly required the attendance of police and NI Fire and Rescue service.
Another reported witnessing a group being chased by a woman after they smashed a window in her home.
One person described a group of youths on e-scooters causing issues at Jennings’s Park as being aged between 12 and 14 years.
Parents are being urged to be aware of their children’s whereabouts and to enquire of their behaviour when out with friends.
Police in Newry confirmed that they are aware of ongoing anti-social behaviour issues in the Armagh Road and surrounding areas.
Inspector MacDonald said: “Local police are aware of reports of an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area and we do understand that anything that impacts on a community’s quality of life can cause concern.
“Officers are currently liaising with community representatives and will be on patrol to maintain a presence in the area over the coming days.”
“We would encourage anyone who is experiencing anti-social behaviour or has information in relation to recent incidents, to please get in touch with us via the usual channels. Information is key to enabling us to dedicate our resources where they are needed most and respond to any crimes in progress.
Call us in Newry on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111. Alternatively, you can submit a report online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
