Police issue warning after disorder at Hotwalls gatherings involving 150+ youths

Police issue warning after disorder at Hotwalls gatherings involving 150+ youths

Police have issued a warning after officers were called to large gatherings at the Hotwalls in Portsmouth on two consecutive days.

According to Chief Inspector Sam Warne, around 150 young people gathered in the area during the warm weather, with the majority described as well behaved and simply enjoying themselves.

However, police say a small number became involved in anti-social and criminal behaviour, leading officers to implement dispersal powers.

During the incidents, the atmosphere reportedly escalated quickly, with large groups surrounding officers and police vehicles. Some individuals allegedly attempted to force open police car doors, prompting additional police units to attend.
Chief Inspector Warne said many of those present were also consuming alcohol, with several visibly intoxicated.

Police warned this not only constitutes an offence, but also increases the risk of young people becoming vulnerable or victims of crime.

In a statement, Chief Inspector Warne said:

“This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
He added that officers would continue taking “robust action” against anyone involved in disorder or anti-social behaviour, including the use of arrests and Section 35 dispersal orders where necessary.

Police say the issue remains a community priority and incidents like this will continue to receive an “appropriate, scaled police response”.

Parents and guardians are also being urged to be aware of where their children are, who they are with, and what they are doing, particularly during evenings and weekends.

Chief Inspector Warne said officers would again be present in the area today and are prepared to provide the response needed if further incidents occur.

Police also shared a CCTV image from the area to highlight the scale of the police response over the past two days, saying officers would rather be tackling other crime issues across the city.

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Posted: 2026-05-24T10:21:20+0000