Three 16-year-old boys have been arrested after approximately 200 young people stormed the Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, causing a major disturbance.
Police Response and Arrests
Police rushed to the shopping centre and ordered the large crowd to leave amid reports of 'nuisance behaviour' in the food court. Two of the teenagers, both from London, were arrested on suspicion of causing a public nuisance. A third, also from London, was detained on suspicion of common assault. All three remain under investigation, Kent Police confirmed.
Dispersal Order Issued
Kent Police issued a dispersal order, granting officers the power to move people on from the shopping centre within two hours of the initial call at 3pm on Monday. The order also allows police to arrest anyone who returns to the area after being moved on.
Chief Inspector Sarah Rivett of Dartford said: 'While this may have been an isolated incident due to the last day of exams, we are more than prepared for any such antisocial incidents in the future. As a force, we are tackling nuisance behaviour head on as summer approaches and the school holidays begin.'
She added: 'As shown yesterday, we aren’t afraid to bring the full force of the law down on anyone bringing distress and chaos to our communities. We encourage anyone to think twice before participating in these kinds of incidents, as it could have serious consequences on your future. There is no need to gain a criminal record for the sake of boredom or wanting to have fun.'
About Bluewater Shopping Centre
Bluewater is one of the UK's largest retail and leisure destinations. Opened in 1999, it features over 300 stores, 50 restaurants, and 13,000 parking spaces.
