Trouble spreads to Birkenhead

By Natasia Moore

Merseyside Police have told Heart that 50 people have been arrested after disorder broke out in Liverpool South, Birkenhead and Sefton.

Last night saw 45 men and 2 women ages between 14 and 52 arrested.

100 young people ran through Birkenhead committing criminal damage. 

18 Vehicles were set on fire across the area.

A number of shops and pubs near to the Pyramid Shopping centre were damaged.

Heart's Laura Shack has been on the streets of Birkenhead.

ACC Andy Ward said:

"Officers have tonight dealt with a number of incidents of violence and criminal damage in Liverpool, Wirral and Sefton.

"The disorder, violence and damage we saw was the result of a minority of young people engaged in criminal activity and does not reflect the wider local communities, or Merseyside as a whole. Sadly, there has been a significant amount of criminal damage involving cars, retail premises and businesses, which has a huge impact on our communities.

"Four fire engines were also withdrawn from service after missiles were thrown at them as they were dealing with incidents in the Lodge Lane and Smithdown Road areas. This is appalling when you consider that the Fire Service provides an invaluable service to our communities and any one of those engines could have been called out to an incident where there could have been a risk to life.

"Our message is clear there is no place for disorder on the streets of Merseyside and we will take robust action to deal with those who commit acts of violence and damage. Merseyside Police has good links with communities across the region and over the last two days we have worked closely with residents, community leaders and partner agencies to assess tensions within our communities so we can respond effectively and make the streets safe for the people of Merseyside.
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"Detectives from the Force Crime Operations Unit are carrying out a thorough investigation in to the incidents which have taken place over the last two nights. And I would like to reassure the public that we are determined to identify those involved and ensure they are brought to justice.
 
"If anyone has information about the disorder which has taken place over the last two nights, they can call us on 0151 709 6010. We are also asking anyone who has photographs or video footage of the offenders involved to  email them to disorderinvestigation@merseyside.police.uk.Alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.