Section 35a Dispersal Order: Sutton 27/02

In response to the recent Red v Blue trend.

I have authorised a section 35 dispersal today for a number of areas within Sutton from 1400hrs to 2359hrs.

This gives police the power to direct individuals to leave the designated areas and not to return for a specified period. It is used when there is a risk of harassment, alarm or distress, or crime or disorder in an area.

This power will allow officers to be proactive in dealing firmly with anyone gathering in the designated areas in connection with the social media posts.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation and are taking steps to remove posts as they appear.

Our priority is the safety of the young people and communities of Sutton.

If you have any information, please call 101. In an emergency call 999. You can pass us information anonymously using the Crimestoppers website.