Merseyside Police have introduced a special dispersal order in Bootle, Merseyside, to tackle groups of youths causing trouble in the town centre. This decision follows several reports of up to 20 young people throwing eggs at people and intimidating shop workers near the Strand Shopping Centre.
The order started at 8:00pm on Friday, February 13, 2026, and is set to stay in place until 8:00pm on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Under these rules, officers from Merseyside Police can tell groups to leave the area and seize any items that might be used to cause trouble.
Police also have the power to take anyone under the age of 16 back to their home address. The zone covers several streets, including Stanley Road, Merton Road, Marsh Lane, Washington Parade, and Litherland Road.
Inspector Ken Sumner has asked parents to make sure they know where their children are during the evenings to help keep the community safe. Retail workers at the shopping centre reported being pushed and confronted by groups, with some even being prevented from leaving work safely.
This is the second time this month that the police have used these powers in this part of town, after a similar order was put in place on February 4, 2026. Officers will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area to help residents and business owners feel more secure.
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