AN operation to tackle anti-social behaviour in Penarth was carried out over the weekend in response to community concerns.

A dedicated operation to clampdown on anti-social behaviour - Operation Mobile - saw neighbourhood policing teams from Penarth, the Vale and Barry, along with community safety partnership officers carry out high-visibility patrols on Friday and Saturday night.

Officers patrolled the anti-social behaviour (ASB) hotspot areas and a number of stop-searches took place.

A quantity of alcohol was seized from underage drinkers and disposed of by officers.

Two people also received street warnings for cannabis.

Deputy local policing inspector for Penarth, Bryn Powis, said: “This operation was in response to concerns from the community regarding anti-social behaviour within Penarth on Friday and Saturday evenings. In recent weeks, we have received a number of reports of large groups of youths behaving in an anti-social manner including underage drinking.

“We are working with our partners to stamp out anti-social behaviour in our communities and ensure that those who visit Penarth do so with consideration towards local residents.

“We only received a small number of reports of incidents over the weekend but we are aware of resident’s concerns and hope that operations such as this will continue to reduce ASB incidents in the town. We would encourage residents to keep reporting issues to us so that we can take action.

“This was not a one-off operation; Sergeant Samantha Johnson and her team will continue to work tirelessly to ensure Penarth remains a safe and pleasant place for the community who live and work within the town.”

He added: “A number of youths have already received anti-social behaviour warning letters in relation to an incident at the Penarth Athletic Field at the end of last month. A 14-year-old boy has also been charged with an offence under the assaults on emergency workers act. He is due in court later this month.”

If you have any concerns about ASB then please call the police on 101 or contact your local neighbourhood team.