Kent Police said it deployed extra patrols in response to reported anti-social behaviour and made arrests involving teenagers for offences including assaulting an emergency worker and being drunk and disorderly. Officers said the measures were part of a wider effort to maintain order and reduce disruption in the area.
A dispersal order was also put in place, giving police additional powers to direct people to leave the area if officers believed they were likely to act in an anti-social manner. The order was intended to help prevent incidents from escalating and to allow police to respond more quickly to any trouble.
Ch Insp Ian Swallow said the force remained committed to tackling anti-social behaviour and acknowledged that there would always be isolated pockets of disorder. He said the operational plan had ensured crime and disorder were kept to an absolute minimum, with the low number of arrests seen as evidence that the approach was effective.
Swallow added that when incidents did occur, officers were able to identify those involved quickly. The police response included visible patrols across the affected area, which were aimed at deterring further offences and reassuring the public.
The arrests of teenagers formed part of the enforcement action taken during the police operation. The offences cited included assaulting an emergency worker, a serious charge that can carry significant legal consequences, and being drunk and disorderly, which often arises in public order situations.
The force said the deployment of additional officers and the use of dispersal powers were designed to keep crime and disorder under control. Police described the situation as manageable and said their preparations had helped limit the number of incidents.
According to officers, the overall aim was not only to respond to reported disturbances but also to prevent further anti-social behaviour by increasing police visibility and using powers available under the dispersal order. The operation reflected the force’s broader approach to handling public order issues and protecting both emergency workers and members of the public.
Swallow’s comments suggested that while some disruption had taken place, police viewed the response as effective and proportionate. He said that although incidents can happen in such situations, the force’s plans meant they were dealt with swiftly.
The police statement highlighted the balance between maintaining public safety and addressing behaviour that can cause concern in local communities. By increasing patrols and using dispersal powers, Kent Police said it aimed to reduce the impact of disorder and prevent more serious incidents from developing.
