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Police made several calls to the pier in Warrenpoint yesterday following reports of a large number of young people engaging in anti social behaviour. A local Councillor called the scene 'madness' following viewing several videos of teenagers watching and cheering on fights on the pier. The PSNI also reported that several life rings were removed, with one of them recovered later in the water although when they returned later the life rings were gone yet again.
On Facebook a police spokesperson said "Tampering with this vital life saving equipment could be fatal. With the increase in people using our waterways there is every chance a life ring may be needed. Whilst you may think it to be a bit of fun at the time, it is a total disregard to the safety of the community.
"I am directly appealing to those who have took it upon themselves to tamper with this equipment. Please take a second and think about the potential fatal consequences of your actions."
Crotlieve Councillor Mark Gibbons said he believed that a lot of those there travelled to the seaside town "I have been sent a number of videos that show teenagers gathering (some drinking) at Warrenpoint Pier yesterday evening (Sat) to watch mostly young girls beating lumps out of each other for the amusement of others as they hold up their phones and cheer them on.
"I was no angel myself at that age, absolutely not, but thank God we didn't have mobile phones and social media in those days that helps spread this behaviour and causes so much grief and anxiety for young people and their families.
"I also believe that a good amount of those in attendance travelled to Warrenpoint also to watch the madness unfold.
"The PSNI were called and the crowd was dispersed. I would plead and ask all parents, especially during this hot summer weather, do you know where your young teenage kids are going late in the evening? Are they really having a sleepover? Heading to the cinema?"
