POlice have vowed to continue their crackdown after armed youths with samurai swords, knives, machetes and tasers ran riot in the streets of Southampton.

Around 30 teens chased each other around during the “shocking” incident on Thursday night, which took place near the junction of Montague Avenue and Walton Road in Sholing.

Armed police who swarmed the area to carry out enquiries recovered a haul of weapons.

Now, officers are carrying on their investigations after being given additional powers to stop and search anyone as part of an operation to tackle violence in the area.

Teens armed with samurai swords, knives, machetes and tasers run riot in the streets of Southampton

Last night, three groups of youths were stopped and eight people were searched, but no further weapons were found.

Chief inspector Phil Lamb said: "We don’t take the decision to use these additional powers lightly but we will do whatever it takes to keep our communities safe from those looking to cause harm to others.

"As a result of the action we took yesterday, I am pleased to say there was no repeat of what happened the night before.

"Our officers received great support from the community last night during their patrols and I would like to thank everyone for this because it really does makes a difference.

"I know a lot of people were asking why we were letting people know about the action we were taking but it is important for us to let our communities know why we are in their neighbourhood and what powers we have."

Extra patrols will be taking place throughout the weekend, officers will be making house-to-house enquiries, visiting those who were stopped last night and carrying out searches in local parks.

One Montague Avenue resident, who wished to remain unnamed, described the ordeal as “awful”.

She added: “The teens were all carrying weapons. Baseball bats, knives, crowbars and a taser which you could hear vibrating.

"I was shocked. I feel worried for my children and won’t let them outside. It’s intimidating."

Officers will also continue to use their standard stop and search powers if required.

Mr Lamb continued: "Having the support of our communities is invaluable and hopefully the news of our work will have reassured those living and working in the area.

"We are continuing to work hard, with our partners, to tackle serious violence and if you have any concerns, please speak to our officers who will be in the area throughout the weekend.

"We will be constantly reviewing the situation and we will consider using these powers again if we believe it is necessary to keep you safe."