Yobs smash window in further bus attack

Northumbria Police have launched an investigation after yobs have smashed the window of another bus in Houghton.

Shortly before 8pm on Thursday, the number four bus was targeted by a group of youths in the Burn Park Road area of the town, police have said.

It is the latest in a run of attacks on buses in the area, the last of which was reported on February 17.

Following the incident in February, Go North East threatened to remove services from the area if the ‘extremely dangerous’ attacks continue.

Operation Avalanche was launched in January after residents of Houghton and Hetton complained they had been left scared to go out at night due to the rise in anti-social behaviour.

Northumbria Police Inspector Nick Gjorven is the leading officer on the operation, he said: “We have seen a number of positive results through Operation Avalanche in recent weeks, but will not rest on our laurels and officers will continue to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure anybody who wreaks misery in our communities is identified and dealt with.”

“Uniformed and plain-clothed officers will continue to carry out dedicated patrols in the area, along with our partners, and anyone with any concerns is encouraged to get in touch.”

Following Thursday night’s latest incident, Nick added: “We take intentional acts of criminal damage incredibly seriously and officers are carrying out a number of enquiries to identify those responsible. Anybody found to have been involved will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.”