Extra police in Nottingham city centre following 'gatherings' of school children
It's believed to be part of an internet prank
Last updated 29th Nov 2023
Nottinghamshire Police have told schools and colleges in Nottingham to issue a warning to parents after two large 'gatherings' of school children in the city centre.
The force says it believes it’s part of an internet prank and extra officers will be in the centre this afternoon.
Chief Inspector Karl Thomas said: “Over the last few days we have been alerted to two large gatherings of school children in and around the city centre.
“We believe this is linked to an internet prank and poses no danger to the public. No crimes have been recorded due to these two gatherings.
“However, we realise this can appear intimidating for those visiting the city and have therefore put some measures in place.
“We have increased our patrols in the city and issued a temporary dispersal notice that will allow us to direct people away from the city centre if we believe they are involved in the prank.
“We would encourage school pupils not to carry out the prank which involves removing the school tie of a pupil from a different school and posting it on social media.
“We have also contacted all city schools to ensure the message is sent out to parents and family members so they can be made aware.”
An email sent out to parents by one college said it would be advising and supporting pupils travelling into to Nottingham via the school buses and added that students should avoid visiting the city centre.