A DISPERSAL order has been put in place in a bid to tackle a group of antisocial youths in a Southampton area.

Hampshire Constabulary has put the order in place in Shirley in response to residents reporting an increase in antisocial behaviour from a group of youths in the area and reports of theft and public order offences.

The order was put in place at 4pm today and will last until 11.59pm tomorrow, May 25.

Daily Echo:

Officers are currently at the scene enforcing the order following reports of an altercation in Stratton Road at 4.08pm.

The order gives officers the power to make those involved in anti-social behaviour leave the area or they will be arrested.

It also allows them to seize anything used to commit this behaviour.

Southampton West Neighbourhood Sergeant Rob Morant said: “The incidents that have led to this order and happened since it was put in place are totally unacceptable and we will ensure those responsible are dealt with appropriately.

“If necessary, we will not hesitate to extend this order beyond Wednesday.

“I want to reassure the community that we will make sure there are enough resources in place to keep them safe and that we are working hard with our partners on a long-term solution to the issues they are facing.”