Police plea to parents after rowdy youths breach Covid rules in Perth

Police in Tayside were forced to take 16 young people to Perth police station last weekend for their own safety.

The force has issued a plea to parents to be aware of where their children are, warning they will use enforcement powers as a last resort.

Despite Covid lockdown rules, police said the 16 young people had to be taken to Barrack Street police office in Perth due to a combination of their behaviour or consumption of alcohol.

In an appeal to parents on social media, Police Scotland said: “Last weekend in Perth, officers worked with partners to engage with young people and deter them from conducting themselves in an antisocial manner.

“Over the course of Friday and Saturday, 16 young persons were required to be taken to Perth police office for their own welfare.

“This was due to a combination of their conduct or behaviour and alcohol consumption which placed them in a vulnerable position and at risk to themselves and others.

“Parents were contacted to collect their children and suitable advice was provided.”

They added: “Not everyone our officers spoke to was poorly behaved and we would pass on our thanks to those who were adhering to the guidelines and to the members of the public who reported antisocial behaviour to officers and community wardens.”

Police also urged adults against buying alcohol for under 18s. They said: “Ahead of the coming weekend, off-licences are being visited and informed of their responsibilities.

“To members of the public, if you’re approached by someone under 18 who asks you to purchase alcohol for them, do not agree to do so as you’ll be committing an offence.”

Officers will also patrol local beauty spots and providing advice on the current coronavirus rules, where necessary.

It comes after more than 56 lockdown rule-breakers were recorded in Perth over the recent bank holiday weekend.

Figures released by the force show three people were asked to leave and a further three were warned about the rules on April 3.

Ten fixed penalty notices were issued across Saturday and Sunday and one person was arrested for breaching the regulations on Monday April 6.

Last weekend also saw two people arrested as police broke up a large gathering at North Inch.

“Not everyone our officers spoke to was poorly behaved

WARNING: Sixteen young people were taken to Barrack Street police office in Perth.