Police have urged parents to “take responsibility” after two days of social media-fuelled disorder in Clapham, south-west London. Hundreds of young people gathered on Saturday and Tuesday, following a TikTok trend for “swarming the streets”. Six teenage girls have been arrested, with more expected as CCTV and body-worn camera footage is reviewed.
The disorder on Tuesday saw hundreds of young people on Clapham High Street, with reports of shops and restaurants being stormed. Fireworks were set off on Clapham Common. On Saturday, 100 police officers were deployed, and four officers and one member of the public were assaulted. The Metropolitan Police said the incidents were organised via TikTok and Snapchat.
Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the “appalling scenes”, saying they were “absolutely unacceptable” and that those responsible would face the full force of the law. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch linked the disorder to a culture where young people believe they can act without consequences, warning that minor offences can lead to worse behaviour.
Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond said officers would maintain a strong presence in Clapham and respond robustly to any further disorder. She urged young people to consider the consequences, including arrest and a criminal record. Bond also appealed to parents to know where their children are and to prevent them from taking part in such antisocial behaviour over the Easter weekend.
