Tackling disorder on the Metro system

Police have launched an anti-social behaviour crackdown following reports of disorder at Metro stations.

Operation Ivor has sprung into life in response to a spate of anti-social behaviour reported at stations including Simonside, Tyne Dock, Chichester and South Shields.

Officers are currently investigating a report that shortly after 7pm on January 26, a large group of youths boarded a Metro train at South Shields and were involved in disorder, which resulted in a window of the carriage being smashed.

Working alongside Metro staff, plainclothed and uniformed officers have increased patrols at various stations in a bid to tackle offenders and offer reassurance to the community.

Inspector Phil Baker, of Northumbria Police, said: “The overwhelming majority of residents use the Metro safely and respectfully, but we have been made aware of a number of reports involving large groups of young people abusing the service.

“This behaviour will not be tolerated, and we are committed to ensuring the behaviour of a minority does not intimidate, frighten or bring misery to our law-abiding members of the community.

“As a result of the operation, a number of dispersal notices have been handed out to youths and summons issued for fare evasion.

“We would always ask members of the public to report incidents of anti-social behaviour, which will then allow us to pursue offenders and bring those responsible to justice. Anyone who experiences disorder is asked to call 101.”