Officers patrolled buses today (April 1) after they were hit by a reported £100,000 worth of damage.
The day of action is in response to reports of more than 18 incidents on the transport network in the past several weeks. Severe damage has been caused to Arriva buses - windows have been kicked out or smashed, seats destroyed and burnt, and a passenger reportedly assaulted.
The majority of incidents have taken place on the 10b bus route, with some incidents on the 14, 15 and 7 buses. The incidents have resulted in Arriva suspending some bus services travelling to Huyton.
READ MORE: Condition update on schoolgirl, 15, shot at bus stop as group of males pictured
Some of the suspects, who are believed to be aged between 13 and 16 years old, have been identified and are in the process of being dealt with – but police are appealing for information on others responsible.
Today, Merseyside Police officers and PCSOs patrolled bus routes and bus stops between Liverpool city centre and Huyton in an aim to deter anti-social behaviour and criminal damage being committed. Patrols will continue into the evening.
In addition, a mobile police station was set up at Huyton bus terminal. Officers also conducted land searches where offenders are believed to have stored implements used to cause the damage.
Merseyside Police is working with Arriva, Merseytravel and Knowsley Council to tackle the issue, and has visited schools in the area. Sgt Naomi Turner said: “We hope this day of action sends a strong and clear message to the small minority of young people that this anti-social behaviour is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.
“In just a few weeks, the criminal damage has racked up an estimated £100,000 worth of damage to buses. This affects the whole community, with buses being taken off schedules due to the extensive repairs needed and bus routes shortened to avoid areas where the buses have been targeted most.
“These incidents have also caused immense distress to bus drivers and other passengers who have felt intimated by their mindless actions. Anti-social behaviour blights our communities, and those committing these offences can quickly escalate into more serious criminality.
“We have identified some of those involved and are seeking to prosecute them, as well as speak to parents to inform them what their child has been up to. The damage they have caused has a devastating impact on the whole community, especially those who rely on the buses.”
Police are working with partner agencies to ensure that those responsible are identified with appropriate action being taken. Sgt Turner added: "I would like to appeal to members of the public who know of those responsible or have information which will help with our continuing enquiries to please contact us.
“I hope today’s activities provides reassurance to bus drivers and passengers that we will not tolerate take such behaviour of causing destruction to our public transport. Our high visibility presence in the area along with enforcing dispersal notices have helped prevent such behaviour from taking place.
“We are working with our partners at Arriva, Merseytravel and Knowsley Council to reassure the public and the staff affected, and we will remain united in tackling this problem together.”
If you have any information that will assist Merseyside Police, please get in contact at: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/
