A GROUP of 12 teenagers have been arrested after a spate of knife-point robberies in Southampton.

Police executed 10 warrants this morning (October 12) – nine locally and one in Portsmouth.

The arrests relate to a number of incidents that have taken place in Southampton city centre throughout June, July, August and September of this year.

Robberies have been carried out in groups and victims have often been teenagers of similar age walking on their own.

Last month, officers also arrested three other teenage boys in connection with the crimes. They were questioned and have been released on bail to allow for further enquiries.

In total, 15 boys aged between 13-years-old and 16-years-old have been arrested. Twelve remain in custody.

Detective Sergeant Russ Smith said: "We fully understand the impact these types of crimes have on victims, as well as parents and on communities. We want to reassure you that we are working hard to identify all those involved and keep people safe.

"If you have any concerns or information please don’t hesitate to speak with patrolling officers or get in touch by calling 101 or online quoting reference 44210357746.

"Tackling violence and knife crime in our city remains an absolute priority for us but it depends on partnerships across a number of sectors, not just the police, it includes education, housing, social and youth services. Every agency is crucial in supporting the city move towards a future free from violence and tackling the root causes of violent crime.

"We urge communities to keep reporting intelligence around knife crime so that together we can continue to tackle this threat in society."

Officers are continuing their enquiries in relation to these incidents and increased patrols will continue in the area.

To report an incident people can call 101 or report online at https://www.hampshire.police.uk/

Alternatively people can report 100% anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/