Nearly 40 police officers descended upon Bournemouth beach on Tuesday afternoon as they responded to ‘disorder involving a large number of people’. An investigation has commenced
Large parts of a popular UK beach have been shut down by police after a mass brawl erupted on the hottest day of the year so far.
Dorset Police said officers had been “assaulted” while responding to a large group of people near Bournemouth pier on Tuesday afternoon. Despite the heavy police presence, there are still crowds of people in the area. Witnesses have said that emergency services are trying to get people away from the the incident.
Flight trackers also show a police helicopter circling the area and a police dog has also been spotted. Around 35 officers have descended upon the area and are policing a cordon around Pier Approach. Paramedics from Southwest Ambulance Service have also arrived.
Police have revealed they are dealing with “disorder involving a large number of people”, and that a number of their officers had been assaulted. One person so far has been seen being arrested and taken away from the beach by cops.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan of Dorset Police said: “I would like to thank the law-abiding members of the public for their support, but I am sending a clear message to those who are intent on causing harm or using violence to leave the vicinity.
“There will be a large police presence in the area while we seek to keep the public and our officers safe. We have commenced an investigation into the disorder and we will continue to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
“I would also like to thank our officers for their professional and courageous actions during this incident.” It’s not yet known how many, if any at all, members of the public have been hurt in the incident.
Dorset’s police and crime commissioner David Sidwick has also issued a comment regarding tonight’s incident. He said: “I have been in contact with senior officers regarding the disorder in Bournemouth this evening and I want to make clear that those involved in violence and criminality will be dealt with robustly.
“I will ensure our officers have the support and resources they need to respond effectively to this situation and keep the public safe. I would also like to thank all officers and emergency services personnel for their professionalism and dedication during this incident.”
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council added: “We are aware of the incident on Bournemouth beach this evening and are working closely with Dorset Police to support their response.
“Incidents like this are taken extremely seriously, and we take a joined-up approach to antisocial behaviour and criminality, working alongside agencies to share intelligence, act quickly and target issues when they arise.
“While the overwhelming majority of people enjoy our coastline responsibly, incidents do occur. We’re grateful to the police for their swift action this evening and their dedication to keep residents, businesses and visitors safe.”
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