PSNI set to crackdown on Facebook riots

Area Commander Chief Inspector Darrin Jones said that he will continue to put extra patrols in areas where these fights have occured.

And in the run up to Halloween police in Lisburn are issuing a warning to young people planning on pre-arranging ‘street brawls’ and getting involved in public disorder.

Mr Jones said that ‘just one punch’ can ruin people’s lives and are warning those planning street brawls that they must suffer the consequences.

“We are aware that young people in certain areas of Dunmurry are pre-arranging fights via social media, mobile and smart phone,” he said 

“They are then gathering in large numbers to engage in these fights in what are largely residential areas. The fights are causing a considerable amount of annoyance and distress to residents particularly the elderly and vulnerable and those with young children.”

He went onto explain that the clashes were not only causing annoyance to residents but there was an aspect of safety and wellbeing of the young people involved. 

“What may start off between one or two people can quickly escalate and the potential for serious injury cannot be underestimated,” Mr Jones said. “We know from past experience that just one punch can destroy lives and wreck families. 

“There is also the danger that younger children in particular could find themselves being drawn into a situation that is potentially very dangerous. 
“I have, and will continue to put extra patrols into the areas where these fights happen as we head towards the Halloween holidays and officers will also continue to gather evidence from CCTV footage and witnesses to help identify offenders.

“We are giving fair and due warning that anyone caught engaging in street fights that there are consequences - you are running run the risk of ending up with a criminal record which will impact on the rest of your life.”
Mr Jones also encouraged parents, local community leaders and those with influence to step up and help reinforce the message.

“We have been working with a wide range of partners on a number of initiatives to educate young people about positive lifestyle choices and I am urging those partners to continue to provide that support,” he said.

“I am also asking parents to make sure they know what their children and teenagers are up to. Closely monitor what they are doing online and talk to them about the dangers of getting caught up in pre-arranged fighting or public disorder and the impact it can have on their futures.”