POLICE Scotland have issued a warning after a streak of anti-social behaviour on Loch Lomond saw drunken fights and a bin set on fire.
Argyll and West Dumbartonshire police said on Facebook that young people had reportedly been leaving litter in public spaces and drinking and fighting to the point of forcing families away.
The service also said that a bin had been destroyed after a lit disposable barbecue was put in it.
The force said: “Over the past few days, we have seen large groups of young persons enjoying the weather in areas such as Balloch Park and Luss.
“The vast majority of those visiting are warmly welcomed as they show respect and consideration to our local community and tourist locations.
Over the past few days, we have seen large groups of young person’s enjoying the weather in areas such as Balloch Park...
Posted by Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire on Thursday, 1 June 2023
“Unfortunately, we have also had a number of individuals who clearly have fewer social standards than our community expects or deserves.”
The image of the bin posted by the police showed the roof and several sides burned away, with fresh rubbish resting on the charred remains of its floor.
The post continued: “Why would you walk away leaving all the leftovers and rubbish from your lunch? Why would you put a lit disposable BBQ in a bin?
“Why would you get drunk and start fighting with other people causing families to leave the park?"
In their post, the police included a photo of a beach with various bottles of alcohol, plastic garbage and other pieces of debris strewn out across the sand.
“Our communities don’t deserve to put up with this ASB [anti-social behaviour]! That is why we will be out in force looking for those who do not treat our communities with respect.
“If you are an individual who can’t meet the standards we expect, we have a simple message. Don’t come!
“We are behind our local communities working with them to keep our area safe and welcoming for all.”
