Police activate new year dispersal zone in Totton town centre after heightened stop-and-search powers result in teens’ arrests for weapons offences

A TWO-day dispersal order was activated in Totton town centre after police arrested two youths on suspicion of weapons offences.

Fears of violence prompted the extra stop-and-search powers on Sunday between 4pm and midnight, before the dispersal order, between 4.20pm yesterday (Monday) and 4.19pm tomorrow, over potential disorder.

It covered areas including Totton Precinct, the High Street and Testwood Recreation Ground.

According to the Hampshire force, this was due to information received which indicated the potential for violent disorder.

The local 16-year-old boys were arrested during the evening, one on suspicion of possessing a blade in a public place, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, and a public order offence.

The other was detained on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

Both were later released on conditional bail pending further enquiries.

Officers can stop and search anyone in an area where there has either been serious violence, or it is believed serious violence is imminent.

But at the time the powers were implemented, DCI Alex Spratt sought to allay any public fears.

He said: “While I know the local community will be understandably concerned to learn of possible disorder here, I want to reassure you all that we are acting swiftly to ensure that we tackle any disruption and deal with those responsible.

“A big part of our response is what we have now implemented, and we will have lots of officers in the area in question to ensure the safety of our entire community.

"I would also like to stress that the people believed to be involved are known to each other, and we do not believe there to be a wider threat to the public.”

Cllr Caroline Rackham, NFDC representative for Totton South, said: “I’m so disappointed that a very small minority seem to be having such an impact on our town. I’m very grateful that the police are taking the matter so seriously and hopefully it will all be resolved very soon so the people of Totton can start their new year without worry.

“It's very important that people continue to report crimes to the police so they can focus their attention where its needed.”

Under the powers, officers can order a person to leave areas and not return within the specified time. They can also seize anything used to commit antisocial behaviour.

Those refusing to comply will be committing an offence and be liable for arrest.

Individuals aged under 16 will be taken home, and follow-up work undertaken with parents.

Insp. Allan Dineley said: “Unfortunately, we are seeing a minority of people who appear intent on involving themselves in criminality and disorder in the local area.

“We will not tolerate this and are putting these measures in place to help us prevent and address these issues, and keep our communities safe.

“The tactics we are using are a robust measure to keep the public safe and ensure local people’s lives aren’t disrupted.”

Witnesses or those affected by such offences are urged to report them so officers can target patrols.

Contact the force online via hampshire.police.uk or call 101. In an emergency, dial 999.