Dispersal orders have been put in place in a bid to keep Southampton city-centre safe during Halloween
Officers say they have brought in the dispersal zones so that "everyone can enjoy the Halloween festivities in a safe environment".
The zones covered by the orders are Bitterne Park and Harefield, Portswood Road and the precinct and Southampton University.
Dispersal zones are currently in place in all of these areas having started at 6.30pm yesterday evening (October 27).
They will continue until 6.30pm on Sunday.
More dispersal zones will be in place between 4pm on Tuesday and 2am on Wednesday in the same areas.
A separate order will cover the Thornhill area between 5pm on Tuesday and 4am on Wednesday.
The special powers allow police to deal with any issues of anti-social behaviour more effectively.
They allow officers to order a person to leave the area with no return within a specified time period.
Those who refuse are committing a criminal offence and can be arrested.
Children under 16 will be taken to their home and follow-up work will be done with parents, the force says.
Acting Inspector Dean Marsh-Clasby from the Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We want to make sure everyone can enjoy the Halloween festivities in a safe environment.
“Hopefully we will not need to use these powers, but we will not hesitate to take action should it be needed.
“There are loads of activities and events going on for people to get involved in across the city, and we will be on patrol throughout Halloween weekend and on the day itself.
“Please do come and speak to us if you have any concerns or questions, and if you’re not sure what’s going on in the area we will be able to help signpost you to an age-appropriate activity.”
The time the orders are in place for can be extended with more areas added if necessary.
A spokesperson said: "We have established these dispersal zones as part of a proactive drive to prevent antisocial behaviour occurring across Southampton during the Halloween period.
"In addition, we will be utilising Section 60aa of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 if required, which allows an officer to require a person to remove any item believed to be worn for the purpose of concealing their identity.
"This helps us tackle those who we believe are out to commit anti-social behaviour and crime and we will use it as an option should we have concerns around anyone attempting to conceal their identity."
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