Tackling antisocial behaviour in Stornoway

Police Scotland is working with partner agencies to address recent antisocial behaviour in Stornoway.

Officers have been dealing with a number of incidents involving a group of youths in the local area, including threatening and abusive behaviour, vandalism, fire-raising, dangerous cycling and antisocial behaviour.

A number of young people have been charged with offences in connection with these.

The most recent incident involved a family being threatened and their car vandalised on Tuesday April 12. Inquiries are ongoing into this incident and it is anticipated that members of the group involved will be charged with criminal offences.

Western Isles Area Commander, Chief Inspector Alasdair Macleod said: ‘We are taking these crimes very seriously and I would urge anyone who comes across disorder to contact police.

‘Antisocial behaviour and criminal acts will not be tolerated.

‘Officers are carrying out routine patrols with particular attention on areas reporting an increase in this type of behaviour. Anyone found to be committing these offences will be dealt with appropriately.

‘We understand the impact these crimes have on the local community and I would like to thank locals who continue to bring these incidents to our attention. I would reassure them that everything possible is being done to reduce antisocial behaviour in our area.

‘I will personally be working alongside our partners in the community and in local services to ensure that we are doing all we can to protect ourselves from this type of behaviour while prioritising the welfare of our children.’

Chief Inspector Macleod also encouraged members of the public to continue reporting these matters to Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.