Cookstown police warn 'idiots and troublemakers' to stay away

They warn people intending on coming to the Ratheen, Westland, Cemetery areas of the town "for a wrecking session" to stay away.

In a social media post, they said: "Last Halloween we gave a clear warning to those intent on causing bother, the message was received loud and clear with the result being it was one of the quietest nights in years.

"So for those who haven't grasped it or think it doesn't apply this year then here's a clear explanation.

"Covid restrictions add an extra dimension this year, but the core message is still the same. Chatting to those of you in Ratheen whilst on patrols throughout the year, the same thing is repeated over and over. You don't want any antisocial behaviour in the area.

"As with last year, parents, if your kid is running about causing havoc with fireworks and/or aiming fireworks at property or individuals (including ourselves), they will be lifted and you'll be required to attend the station.

"If you aren't from the area and your cunning plan for the evening is to drop your kid at the entrance to Ratheen and head home for a quiet night - don't bother chances are you'll be making a pick up journey to custody.

"And if you aren't from Ratheen and/or intend coming to cause bother, don't waste your time, won't seem such a good idea when we put you in the cells.

"Over the weekend there'll be plenty of us about on foot, in cars and on bikes, majority of whom will be the Cookstown Neighbourhood Team who are regularly in the area, so many of you will already know us to say hello to."

The post adds that a huge amount of work has gone on behind the scenes by many to ensure it's a quiet weekend for everyone so let's all work together to ensure it is.

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