Over 100 youths organising fights in South Belfast

by Gráinne Connolly

Police have issued a warning to parents and young people in South Belfast, following reports of groups of young people engaging in fights, anti-social behaviour and criminal damage.

It's been happening in the Lower Ormeau, Markets and Donegall Pass areas in recent nights.

Just before 8.45pm on Monday evening, police responded to calls about two groups of young people throwing golf balls and other items at each other in the Lower Ormeau area. 

More than 100 youths are said to have been involved. 

A number of parked cars were also damaged during the incident.

Chief Inspector Gavin Kilpatrick said, “We continue to have additional resources dedicated to the area to prevent and respond to any incidents, but we really need parents and young people to take responsibility for their actions.

“We suspect some of these recent incidents have been arranged by young people using social media, so this is something parents and guardians really need to address.

"We have consistently warned young people about their behaviour.

"Getting involved in anti-social and criminal behaviour at best can result in a criminal record which can affect travel, education and employment opportunities in the future. At worst, someone could be seriously injured or killed.

“Time and time again we have asked parents and guardians to ensure they know where their young people are, what they are doing and who they are with.

"We will continue to work with local representatives and community workers to address this issue, but the local community deserves better.

"Residents of south Belfast should not be subjected to these incidents of criminal and anti-social behaviour.

Earlier this month, similar reports of organised fighting were reported in West Belfast. 

Young people were believed to have been armed with weapons including knives: