Thanet police officers dispersed three large groups of people at Viking Bay and Margate beach on Tuesday (June 2) and one 15-year-old arrested for carrying nunchucks – a martial arts weapon of two sticks connected by a short chain – yesterday.
On twitter Thanet police said: “Town Beat officers dispersed three large groups from Viking Bay and Margate main sands, none were from the local area. Sent packing with the proverbial sand flea in their ears.”
Officers on patrol in Broadstairs came across a group of about 40 teenagers who had travelled to Viking Bay from Medway. Officers seized a large quantity of alcohol and directed the group to leave the area.
On the same day, officers in Margate responded to reports of a disturbance at the Main Sands. It was reported that two people had been involved in a fight.
When officers attended they engaged with both parties who declined any police involvement. Two groups, of approximately 10 people who had travelled from North Kent, were directed to leave the area.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: “In liaison with the local authorities who have responsibility for the management of beaches, parks and other locations across the county, officers will continue to engage with anyone found in breach of the restrictions, to explain why they are necessary and to encourage them to comply. Enforcement will only be used as a last resort.”
The 15-year-old was arrested after officers spoke to a group gathered on the Harbour Arm.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: “Officers on patrol in Margate on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 3 spoke to a group of people on the Harbour Arm shortly after 2pm.
“A bag found next to where the group was standing was searched and a 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.
“He remains in custody.”
