The coming together of 2 ‘gangs’ for a pre-arranged fight in Ryde led to 10 teenagers being stopped and searched yesterday afternoon (Saturday) – but no weapons were found.
Police were alerted to the situation in the Brook Close area of Oakfield at around 14:40. It was reported that 2 large groups of youths – believed to be from Newport and Ryde – had gathered for a fight, with knives possibly being carried.
Officers attended but the groups dispersed on the arrival of Police.
A short time later, a total of 9 boys aged between 12 and 17-years-old and a single 14-year-old girl were stopped in the vicinity of St John’s Road, Meaders Road and the wider Oakfield area.
Hampshire Constabulary has confirmed that no knives or other weapons were located on them.
It comes as Hampshire Constabulary intensifies efforts to tackle knife crime as part of Operation Sceptre – a national week of action looking at key themes such as prevention and education and officers carrying out targeted operations alongside partner agencies.
On Friday, a 50-year-old man was arrested in Sandown for possession of a large kitchen knife, as previously reported by Island Echo.
Excellent! Good old fisticuffs!! Refreshing to hear…
Any investigation to the 10 year old girl they threatened to punch, who was playing in the park ?! Parents of Ryde are scared to let children out to play