Police, guardians and partners urged to help tackle recurring antisocial behaviour
Police responded to reports on Monday afternoon that a group of young people had gained entry to the long-empty former Ranch restaurant on Georges Street in Omagh and were on the roof. Officers arrived shortly after the call and asked those present to leave; they complied and were escorted from the premises.
A Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) spokesperson said parents and guardians were contacted and given guidance, and that the Youth Diversionary Officer had been informed. The incident follows a pattern of concern at the site, which local officers say they are monitoring.
"We continue to engage with the owners of the premises whilst working alongside partner agencies, local representatives and the community to find collaborative and proactive solutions to address the problem."
Officers urged anyone who sees antisocial behaviour to report it as it happens. A PSNI statement reminded the public that in an emergency they should phone 999, while non-emergency reports can be made on 101 or via the force's online reporting form. Anonymous reports may also be made to Crimestoppers.
- Location: Former Ranch restaurant, Georges Street, Omagh town centre
- Time reported: Shortly before 4.30pm on Monday
- Action taken: Officers attended; youths removed and parents contacted; Youth Diversionary Officer informed
Local context and concerns
Vacant and derelict properties in town centres can attract becoming focal points for risky behaviour, and residents and businesses in Omagh have raised concerns about safety, littering and damage at disused sites in the past. The PSNI's neighbourhood team said it is aware of ongoing issues at the Georges Street premises and is maintaining contact with the property owners.
Police highlighted the potential consequences for young people involved in such activity, warning of the risk of injury, harm to others and the possibility that behaviour could lead to a criminal record. Officers also said engagement with parents and use of diversionary services form part of their approach.
How the public can help
Police appealed for timely reporting so patrols can be directed where problems are occurring and positive action can be taken. The force provided several ways to make contact and asked anyone who witnesses incidents to use these routes.
| Report type | How to report |
|---|---|
| Emergency | 999 |
| Non-emergency | 101 or the PSNI online reporting form |
| Anonymous | Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or their website |
The statement did not specify what, if any, immediate enforcement action will be taken against the property owners. It did confirm continued engagement between neighbourhood officers, elected representatives and partner agencies to seek collaborative solutions aimed at preventing further incidents.
Members of the community who are worried about youngsters accessing unsafe structures were encouraged to speak with parents or guardians and to remind young people of the dangers involved. The PSNI said advice and support had already been provided to those contacted following Monday's incident.
Local campaigners and councillors have in the past called for quicker intervention where empty premises pose a hazard or become hotspots for antisocial behaviour; any further incidents at the Georges Street site are likely to bring renewed focus on both enforcement and preventive measures, including securing properties and offering diversionary activities for young people.
Police reiterated that reporting incidents helps them to target resources effectively and form part of the response to improve safety in Omagh town centre.
