In a troubled section of Liverpool, frightened residents are expressing their distress over gangs of unruly children causing chaos in their neighborhood.

Residents of Garston-under-the-bridge have shared accounts of young groups, some as young as six, roaming the streets with knives, breaking into homes, starting fires, and verbally abusing others.

The locals feel trapped in their own homes, too afraid to speak out due to potential reprisals. A resident described the area as lawless, stating that the situation escalates with each offense, instilling fear among the community ahead of Bonfire Night and Mizzy Night.

According to reports to the Liverpool Echo, children are seen climbing on police vehicles, invading properties, and harassing residents through doorbell cameras without fear of consequences. Concerns were raised about young children associating with older teens, suggesting potential grooming behavior.

Another resident, already planning to move away, recounted terrifying encounters with children attempting to break doors and windows. The escalating crime wave has prompted Councillors Sam Gorst and Lucy Williams to address the torment faced by residents.

The councillors emphasized the need for more visible policing, high-visibility patrols, and swift responses in identified trouble spots. They called for measures such as Acceptable Behaviour Contracts and tenancy enforcement to tackle persistent offenders.

Merseyside Police acknowledged the rise in anti-social behavior in the area and highlighted collaborative efforts with various agencies to address the issue. Recent actions include arrests, warnings, and engagement with young people under Acceptable Behaviour Contracts.

Superintendent Charlotte Irlam emphasized proactive strategies like disruption tactics and diversionary activities such as boxing sessions to deter anti-social behavior. The police are also exploring the installation of CCTV for crime prevention and detection.

She encouraged residents to report incidents and concerns, assuring anonymity through partnerships with Crimestoppers. Despite a decrease in overall crime in Garston, anti-social behavior has increased, prompting targeted patrols and community engagement initiatives to restore safety and security in the area.