The PSNI has urged parents to speak to their children after reports of young people behaving “recklessly, dangerously and in some instances criminally” at an interface in Belfast.
It follows reports that a number of youths had gathered at the area of the Broadway roundabout at the interface of south and west Belfast, on Sunday December, 29.
West Belfast MLA Pat Sheehan also called on young people “intent on causing trouble in the Broadway area” to desist and leave local residents alone.
South Belfast Neighbourhood Inspector Róisín Brown said: “Following reports of two large gatherings of young people shortly after 8:25pm, police attended and the youths dispersed upon our arrival.
“Officers remained in the area and provided a visible policing presence throughout the rest of the evening, as well as liaising with key stakeholders.”
On Sunday a video was also circulated on social media which appears to show a young person on a bike being struck by a car in the area.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Services confirmed it did not attend the incident.
Inspector Brown added: “We are also aware of a video circulating online involving an individual on a bike, who is believed to have been struck by a vehicle whilst cycling in the Broadway area last night.
“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident and I ask anyone who has any information about this, or who may have dashcam footage available, to contact us via 101.”
Inspector Róisín Brown said that the PSNI understand the concerns of local residents and the wider public regarding ongoing anti-social behaviour in the Broadway area.
She added that officers are committed to working alongside partner agencies, local representatives and the community to address the problem.
“However, I also urge parents and guardians to speak with their children about their behaviour,” added Inspector Róisín Brown.
“Some young people are behaving recklessly, dangerously and in some instances criminally around Broadway roundabout with little regard for other members of the public and local residents. I am concerned that someone is going to get seriously hurt.
“We all have a responsibility to help make where we live safer for everyone. Reporting crimes or incidents that impact on your quality of life helps focus our patrols where they are needed and take positive action. Ring us on 101, or 999 in an emergency, report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or speak directly to your Neighbourhood Team.”
Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan said: “Last night young people gathered at Broadway intent on causing trouble and disruption to local residents, this is disgraceful and must stop.”
Mr Sheehan added: “Sinn Féin has been working with community representatives and residents on the ground since the summer in an effort to ensure this area remains calm and peaceful.
“Local residents have now had enough, the young people gathering to cause chaos in this area must desist, and parents should also know where their children are.”