POLICE are using special powers to crackdown on anti-social behaviour in a town centre.

A Section 34 dispersal order has been issued in Eastleigh for the area surrounding the Swan Centre.

This comes after a number of incidents over the weekend with anti-social behaviour at Tesco Express and McDonald’s in the Swan Centre on Wells Place.

Running for 48 hours, the order gives officers powers to disperse people and means that any items used to carry out anti-social activities can be seized.

Having become active as of 4.10pm yesterday afternoon, the increased powers are set to last until 4.10pm tomorrow.

Police have said though that if it is considered appropriate, the power could be extended beyond the 48 hour period.

Daily Echo: Map of dispersal order in Eastleigh town centre. Photo from: Hampshire Constabulary. Map of dispersal order in Eastleigh town centre. Photo from: Hampshire Constabulary.

Eastleigh Chief Inspector Marcus Cator, said: “We will be conducting high visibility patrols in this area to reassure the public and deal with any issues. Tackling such behaviour in our local communities remains a district priority for our officers and teams.

“We are conducting enquiries to identify those involved in the anti-social behaviour, and associated criminality, and will take robust action if deemed appropriate.

“Our Neighbourhoods Policing Team are working closely with our partners – including Eastleigh Borough Council and The Swan Centre – in order to resolve these ongoing issues and ensure that residents of Eastleigh remain safe.

“If you see any of our officers in the Town Centre and you have information regarding the incidents at the weekend, please do stop them and let them know. Alternatively, you can report any information you may have online via the Hampshire Constabulary website or by calling 101.”

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