Dorset Police has said officers responding to “unacceptable disorder” were able to prevent serious injuries and protect the wider public from harm in Bournemouth.
On May 26, Tuesday, at around 6pm, a fight occurred on the beach in the area of the Pier Approach, which led to disorder involving a large number of people.
Officers who were in the area on patrol responded very quickly before being joined by additional resources, including a police dog and the NPAS helicopter, to disperse those involved.
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During the response to the incident, officers were met with violence and hostility, including glass bottles and objects being thrown at them.
The force has said fast-time work on the beach resulted in three arrests being made.
A 22-year-old man from Tottenham in London was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
A 17-year-old boy from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of assault and affray and a 17-year-old boy from the Portsmouth area was arrested on suspicion of affray.
All three remain in police custody at this time.
Chief Superintendent Julie Howe, BCP Local Policing Commander, said: “The levels of violence and disorder we saw last night on the beach were absolutely unacceptable and not something we will tolerate here in Dorset.
“Over the Bank Holiday weekend we had many families enjoying our beaches respectfully and we would like to thank all law-abiding visitors, but yesterday there were groups of young people who had travelled from out of the county and were intent on causing disorder.”
She added: “We have commenced a robust investigation into the events of last night and will be working to make sure anyone involved is held accountable for their behaviour.
“I want to praise the officers who were involved for their professional and courageous actions. The swift response quickly de-escalated the situation and prevented any further large-scale disorder.
“Not only were they trying to prevent the situation from escalating, they were also responding to critical medical emergencies on the beach, which included giving CPR to a woman and helping provide support to the ambulance service.
“This type of disorder takes officers away from dealing with what matters most, protecting the public.”
Chief Superintendent Julie has also urged residents not to share footage circulating online and said misinformation about the incident is being spread on social media.
She clarified that reports claiming someone had been stabbed are incorrect.
She said: “Despite the volume of objects being thrown, it is extremely fortunate that none of our officers were seriously injured.
“I know there is footage circulating online and we would ask that you do not share it and report anything of relevance to us.
“We are aware of information on social media saying that someone was stabbed during the disorder, but this is incorrect and we are not aware of anyone sustaining any stab wounds or serious injuries.”
There will also be an increased police presence at the beach.
Chief Superintendent Julie said: “There will be an ongoing large police presence in the area of the beach. Our message is strong and clear – do not visit Bournemouth if you are intent on causing harm.
“Stop your children, make sure you know where they are going and what they are doing.
“Violence and disorder will not be tolerated in Dorset.”
Dorset’s police and crime commissioner David Sidwick said: “I would also like to thank all officers and emergency services personnel for their professionalism and dedication during this incident.”
Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale added: “It’s not acceptable to come to Bournemouth and behave in this way.”
