POLICE patrols have increased in Sedgley 'to tackle any groups thinking of loitering and causing trouble.'

This comes after several reports of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour in the area.

Dudley police have issued a statement on social media insisting they are ‘taking this very seriously’ and ‘efforts to identify and arrest others suspected of involvement are ongoing’.

As part of the crackdown on anti-social behaviour, a teenager boy was arrested on suspicion of robbery last Wednesday (March 24) but was later released on bail.

A spokesperson from Dudley Police said: “We’re aware of ongoing anti-social behaviour and several reports of criminal damage in the #Sedgley area. We understand that people living in the area are angry and concerned and we want to reassure people that we are taking this very seriously. Officers have stepped up patrols in the area and we’re working with partner agencies in order to tackle the issue.

"Last night (24 March) we had lots of officers in the area, including some from Project Guardian, which was set up to tackle youth violence. They spoke to a number of people and a teenage boy was arrested on suspicion of robbery. He’s been released on bail and our efforts to identify and arrest others suspected of involvement are ongoing.

"There are lots of posts online about it and we’d urge people to contact us and tell us what they know. Sometimes criminal damage and other low level offences can go unreported but we need to ensure that we have as much information as possible on every incident that has taken place."

Residents also reported the criminal activity, including the vandalism of a bus stop, to Dudley North MP Marco Longhi.

Dudley News: Vandalised bus stop on Vicar Street, Sedgley. Credit: Johnathan Paul (Facebook)Vandalised bus stop on Vicar Street, Sedgley. Credit: Johnathan Paul (Facebook)

He said: “This is just unacceptable behaviour and I thank residents for taking action straightaway. The Police have got on top of this quickly and I am pleased an arrest has already been made.

“Additional resources have been allocated, including patrols to ensure any groups are dispersed. An increased police presence will be welcomed by residents and will help tackle any groups thinking of loitering and causing trouble.

“People should not be grouping together, during the midst of a deadly pandemic – criminal behaviour will not be tolerated. A big thank you to residents and the police.”

The police are urging the public you get in touch with any information via www.west-midlands.police.uk, calling 101 or calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.