Three teenage girls have been arrested after a disorder involving hundreds of young people in Clapham.
The Metropolitan Police was called at around 5pm on Monday (March 31) to reports of anti-social behaviour involving hundreds of youths, reports our sister site London Now.
Young people were said to have attempted to enter shops and a restaurant on Clapham High Street, while fires were lit and fireworks set off on Clapham Common.
A 17-year-old and two 13-year-olds have been arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker.
The 17-year-old has since been charged and bailed to appear in court later this month, while the two younger girls have also been released on bail.
Police say they are reviewing a “significant volume” of CCTV and body-worn video to identify others involved.
Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond warned those who took part “should expect to be arrested” and highlighted the long-term consequences of a criminal record, including impacts on employment and travel.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show large crowds gathering in the area, with smoke rising from small fires in the park and groups moving between shops, prompting some businesses to close early.
Five people were assaulted, including four police officers.
One officer was taken to hospital with an arm injury sustained while making an arrest.
Similar scenes had taken place in the area on Saturday (March 29), with videos circulating online in the days after.
The Metropolitan Police said a dispersal order had been put in place ahead of Monday evening following intelligence about a repeat incident, with around 100 officers deployed.
A “robust and visible” policing plan will remain in place, with increased patrols and a zero-tolerance approach to further disorder.
Police have also urged parents and guardians to take responsibility for their children, warning that social media trends can quickly escalate into serious incidents.
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