THE PSNI says it will have extra resources on the ground this weekend to prevent a repeat of last weekend’s rave event.
Over 300 young people had converged on Cavehill Country Park for the event which had been arranged on Facebook.
A police spokesperson said: “Last weekend community police officers attached to Antrim Road station responded to reports of large groups of youths in the grounds of Cavehill Country Park and the surrounding residential area engaged in risk taking behaviour.
“Officers also responded to rival groups of youths in the area of Alexandra Park Avenue.
“These incidents were well highlighted in the local press along with the impact factors associated with the quality of life issues and distressexperienced by residents in both areas.
“Over the last few days we have reviewed these incidents and consulted with other stakeholders including residents, Belfast City Council (BCC), community and youth leaders and political representatives.
“It has become apparent that these incidents are being planned and discussed by young people through digital media and in particular via the medium of Facebook.
Consequently our policing response this incoming weekend will involve additional officers being deployed on the ground conducting patrols in partnership with BCC community safety wardens.
“We will also be monitoring social media sites and will deploy evidence gathering capability when on patrol. We have also been liaising with local off-licences in the area.
“As local community police we would again appeal to young people to take a step back and reflect on the potential implications to their future employment, travel and career aspirations of they find themselves subject to Criminal Justice proceedings.”
