Library image: Canterbury Police Station opposite the City Wall
In a proactive move to address anti-social behaviour, additional police officers are being deployed in Canterbury this week after reports received by Kent Police indicate that a group of teenagers has been targeting their peers in the Dane John Gardens and city wall areas attempting to steal belongings.
The incidents are currently under investigation, and diligent officers are working to identify the culprits responsible. Increased patrols will be a common sight in the affected area over the next few days. To discourage potential offenders, a 48-hour dispersal order has been put into effect.
Dispersal Area and Enhanced Powers will mean from 3:00 PM on Wednesday, March 27th, until 3:00 PM on Friday, March 29th, officers will wield additional authority to disperse groups within the city centre.
Those who defy the order may face arrest.
Inspector Paul Stoner, from Canterbury’s Community Safety Unit, emphasized the seriousness of the situation:
“There is no room for anti-social behaviour in Canterbury, or anywhere else in Kent. Our officers are prepared to take robust action against anyone causing trouble for others.”
The newly deployed officers will actively engage with any suspicious groups, aiming to prevent further offences.
If you have information related to the incidents at Dane John Gardens on March 25th and 26th, please contact Kent Police at 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/48465/24. Alternatively, you can provide anonymous tips through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or using their online form.