Extra police powers to prevent anti-social behaviour in King Square, Barry

Officers have been given additional powers to direct people to leave King Square, Barry, following an increase in anti-social behaviour.

There have been reports of young people on the roof of the library and other premises, a bin being set alight, fire doors being tampered with, and verbal abuse and threats towards council staff. 

Inspector Huw Tyler from South Wales Police said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe, wherever they are, and nobody should be subjected to threats, verbal abuse, and anti-social behaviour.

“We urge parents and guardians to speak to their young people about not getting involved in anti-social behaviour. Please also check who they are associating with, what they are doing and where they are.”

The order, which is granted under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, is in place from 6pm today (Friday, October 9) until 6pm on Sunday, October 11.

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.

Inspector Tyler added: “We are committed to keeping Barry safe and putting a stop to this recent rise in anti-social behaviour.

“Anti-social behaviour referrals have already been submitted in relation to a number of young people, and their parents have been spoken to.”

"Directed patrols by the Neighbourhood Policing Team are also continuing in King Square and we ask the public to please keep reporting incidents and providing information."

Anyone with information or concerns about this matter, is asked to contact South Wales Police quoting 2600330962.

Please contact South Wales Police by one of the following means.

💻 Contact us online via https://bit.ly/SWPProvideInfo

📞 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 in an emergency.