By MATT NICHOLLS
POLICE were forced to use capsicum spray on a group of teenagers as they caused havoc in the Armidale CBD on Friday night.
Inspector Roger Best said more than a dozen youths went on a rampage in the city following an Armidale PCYC youth event in Curtis Park.
He said there were a number of assaults and reports of general misbehaviour.
“There were more than 100 youths enjoying the PCYC event in the park, but unfortunately a number of them gathered in the city and were involved in a series of incidents,” Inspector Best said.
“There were reports of damage, including kicking cars and mucking around with trolleys in a shopping centre car park.
“These youths were aged 14 to 16 and involved boys and girls.”
Inspector Best said a number of the teenagers had been indentified and police would review CCTV footage in an attempt to identify more.
“The actions by this group will not be tolerated and all the resources we have will be used to apprehend these offenders,” he said.
“The appropriate action will be taken.”
Inspector Best said the Armidale PCYC ran a number of youth-focused events and the actions of the minority could jeopardise future events.
“It’s really disappointing to see the actions of this group spoil it for the others who went home like they were supposed to,” he said.
If you have any information regarding Friday night’s fracas, call Armidale Police on 6771 0699.
