A TEENAGE boy and four other people were arrested within hours of patrolling police officers launching a crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

Essex Police put in place a dispersal order on Tuesday afternoon in response to residents’ concerns of disorder in the Cross Cut Court area of Colchester.

Since then three men, aged 28, 34, and 45, a 15-year-old boy and an 18-year-old girl have all been arrested and remain in custody.

The 28-year-old man was detained on suspicion of robbery while the teenage boy was arrested on suspicion of assault.

The other two men and the girl, were arrested on suspicion of a public order offence.

Inspector Stuart Austin said: “The dispersal order remains in place until about 2.50pm tomorrow afternoon and there will continue to be a visible police presence in the area.

“We responded quickly to concerns about anti-social behaviour by putting the order in place.

“Officers then responded quickly again to reports of disorder taking place and made arrests.”

Kayleigh Rippingale, Colchester councillor for New Town and Christ Church, has now vowed to try and lead residents away from a life of anti-social behaviour. 

She said: “It is disappointing a minority of individuals continue to be the cause of anti-social behaviour on the estate and surrounding area.

"The police, councillors and Eastlight Housing Association are continuing to work on proactive solutions to these issues, alongside residents, the majority who are positively engaged and community-spirited individuals.

"Our recent litter pick was highly successful with several families from the area taking part and they are planned to continue on a monthly basis.

"We are also investigating targeted services and facilities to support families and young people affected by the cost-of-living crisis and at risk of being drawn into anti-social behaviour."

Anyone with information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to the arrests is asked to call Essex Police by calling 101 and quoting incident 665 of 2 August.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be submitted by contacting independent charity Crimestoppers, by either visiting their website or calling 0800 555 111.