South Wales Police have been granted additional powers to tackle anti-social behaviour in Porth, Rhondda, over the Halloween weekend. A dispersal order has been issued for a large area of Porth town centre, in effect from Friday, October 30 until Sunday, November 1.
The force has asked parents to speak to their children about their behaviour this weekend, warning that officers will be patrolling the streets and will take action if needed. The measure follows reports from the community about a recent rise in anti-social behaviour in the area.
Dispersal order powers
The order has been granted under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, which allows police officers to designate areas for a dispersal order for up to 48 hours. It gives officers on the ground the power to order people to move away, even if they are not committing a crime. If they refuse, it can become a criminal offence.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: "The order enables officers to direct individuals or groups to leave the area for 48 hours if their behaviour has or is likely to contribute to disorder or cause harassment, alarm, or distress to members of the public. Those who are under the age of 16 and subject to this legislation will be taken home or to a place of safety."
Community concerns and police response
Chief Inspector Tony Williams said: "We understand concerns from the community following recent reports of a rise in reports of anti-social behaviour. I urge parents and guardians to speak to their young people about not getting involved in anti-social behaviour. We will have proactive patrols in place over the Hallowe'en weekend and officers will take action against anyone displaying behaviour that causes harassment, alarm or distress to others in the community."
