Kent Police moved swiftly to regain control of Ramsgate’s town centre and seafront this past weekend following a surge in antisocial behaviour. The intervention began on the evening of Saturday 18 April 2026, after the Force Control Room was flooded with calls from concerned residents reporting disruptive groups of young people causing chaos in public areas.
The disorder was primarily focused around King Street, where authorities recorded five distinct incidents involving intimidation, physical fights, and reports of assault. In response to the escalating tension, officers implemented a 48-hour dispersal order, which legally empowered them to force individuals causing harassment, alarm, or distress to vacate the area. Under the terms of the order, any individual who refused to leave or attempted to return within the specified timeframe faced immediate arrest.
The disruption extended to local commerce as patrols visited several businesses along the High Street that had been targeted by large groups causing disturbances both inside and outside their premises. With the assistance of members of the public, officers were able to identify the youths involved as the same individuals linked to the earlier reports of violence and intimidation.
During the operation, officers confronted several young people acting antisocially, recording their personal details and issuing stern warnings regarding the legal consequences of returning to the town. By the end of the evening, eight individuals had been formally removed from the town centre under the dispersal powers. Additionally, police seized an e-bike that was being operated in an erratic and dangerous manner, further emphasizing the zero-tolerance approach taken to restore public order.
Thanet Inspector Matthew Vick said:
‘During busy school holiday periods, our officers have remained proactive and visible to ensure Thanet continues to be a safe place for everyone.
‘Recent dispersal orders in Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Westwood Cross have given us the tools to deter antisocial behaviour and maintain an environment where residents and visitors can feel secure.’