Police get extra powers to deal with ‘unruly youths’ in Swansea city centre

Police have been granted a Section 35 dispersal order under anti-social behaviour laws that cover most of the city centre and marina.

The order gives police officers discretionary powers to disperse people or groups causing, or likely to cause, harassment, alarm, or distress to others.

It enables officers to issue a dispersal order, which covers a specific area for up to 48 hours, allowing them to instruct individuals, aged 10 or over, to leave the area and not return for a designated period.

Officers say the order will be reviewed every 48 hours until 11.30pm on Sunday 3rd September.

Neighbourhood Police Inspector Mark Watkins said: “Following a series of public order incidents in Swansea City Centre over the past few weeks involving unruly youths, aggressive behaviour, and disturbances to shoppers and businesses we have put this dispersal order in place.

“Our priority is the safety and well-being of the public. We use Section 35 when necessary to prevent escalating situations and ensure a safe environment for everyone. The Section 35 is in place as a preventative measure, however failure to comply with the order can result in arrest.

“We will have an increased police presence in the area outlined and officers won’t hesitate to enforce the extra powers afforded to them.”

Writing on social media, Leader of Swansea Council Rob Stewart said: “Pleased to see police taking firm action to deal with anti social behaviour against a small number of individuals who cause disruption for people working and enjoying in our city centre.”