ISLE of Wight police have authorised a 48-hour dispersal order in Newport town centre, in a bid to tackle anti-social behaviour.

The authority was implemented yesterday evening (Friday), and runs until 8.20pm on Sunday, August 13.

Police say it is in place to tackle ongoing issues of anti-social behaviour which is causing members of the public harassment, alarm and distress.

“Dispersal orders enable police to deal with any issues of ASB in a directed area more effectively,” said a spokesperson for the force.

“And give our officers the power to order a person to leave the area with no return within the specified time period.

“Those who refuse to comply with the order are committing a criminal offence and are liable for arrest.

“The Newport Neighbourhoods Policing Team have been working hard to address ASB and the associated criminality in the town, such as shoplifting and disorder, and dispersal orders such as these are just one of the tactics available to us to tackle these issues.
“Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour is asked to contact police on 101, or submit information to us online.”