Five Arrested After Disorder in Lichfield City Centre
Police have arrested five individuals following reports of disorder involving a group of young people in Lichfield city centre.
Officers were called to the area on Friday evening after receiving numerous complaints from concerned members of the public. Witnesses reported seeing groups of youths engaging in antisocial behaviour, including shouting, intimidating passersby, and causing damage to property. The situation quickly escalated, prompting an urgent response from Staffordshire Police.
A spokesperson for the force confirmed that five people, aged between 15 and 19, were taken into custody. They were arrested on suspicion of offences ranging from public order disturbances to criminal damage. All five are currently being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.
“Officers responded swiftly to reports of disorder in the city centre and were able to bring the situation under control,” the spokesperson said. “Five individuals have been arrested, and we are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The disturbance reportedly began in the late afternoon, with businesses and shoppers in the area becoming increasingly alarmed by the behaviour of the group. Several shop owners in the vicinity of Bore Street and Market Street said they closed early out of concern for staff and customer safety.
One shopkeeper, who did not wish to be named, described the scene as “chaotic” and said they had “never seen anything like it” in the usually peaceful city. “It’s really disappointing. Lichfield is normally a very calm and safe place, but yesterday it felt completely different,” they said.
Several local residents also took to social media to share their experiences, with many praising the police for their quick action but expressing frustration that such incidents had occurred in the first place.
Lichfield City Council has since issued a statement condemning the disorder and reassuring residents that measures are being taken to prevent further incidents. “We take these matters extremely seriously,” a council spokesperson said. “We are working closely with Staffordshire Police to ensure that Lichfield remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
Increased police patrols are expected in the city centre over the coming days, with officers also engaging with local businesses and community leaders to rebuild confidence.
Chief Inspector Mark Smith of Staffordshire Police urged anyone who witnessed the events or who may have mobile phone footage of the disorder to come forward. “We are committed to fully investigating this incident and holding those responsible to account,” he said. “The public’s assistance can be vital in helping us piece together exactly what happened.”
Police have confirmed that no serious injuries were reported, although minor damage to street furniture and private property was noted. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from the area as part of their inquiries.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Staffordshire Police quoting incident number 754 of April 25, or alternatively, information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers.
The arrests have sparked a wider conversation in the city about youth engagement and the need for additional support and activities to prevent similar disturbances in the future.
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