Police are taking action in response to nuisance mass youth cycling events which have plagued city centre shoppers and traders recently.
Four arrests have been made, six bicycles seized and nearly 50 homes visited in response to the "significant disorder" caused at three group “ride out” events in Newcastle.
The events, organised by young people, saw up to 300 participants gathering in the city centre on Saturdays March 14, March 21, and March 28.
Recent “ride-a-longs” or "ride-outs" have been advertised on social media, including on TikTok, leading to a series of concerned calls to police.
The Northumbria force said pockets of anti-social behaviour have been reported by the public and businesses as the cyclists have caused widespread disruption.
Examples include riding on the wrong side of the road, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic measures.
A handful have also crowded around parked vehicles and caused damage, with others shouting at passers-by, setting fire to clothing and throwing missiles.
An investigation has been underway with partner organisations to identify those involved in criminality.
Joint patrol activity has increased in hotspot areas and enforcement stepped-up by the force.
This has led to four young people, aged between 11 and 15, being arrested on suspicion of conspiring to intentionally or recklessly cause a public nuisance.
They have since been released on police bail with conditions, as inquiries continue.
As part of the response, officers have also seized six bicycles from key participants using anti-social behaviour powers and issued 20 dispersal notices.
A thorough trawl of CCTV footage has led to 47 young people being identified and visited at home by police in a bid to disrupt their unsafe behaviour.
Letters have also been sent home to parents and carers of young people who live in the wider region to advise them of the dangers of such events.
Chief Inspector Rob Bosson, of Northumbria Police, said: “We’re working hard with our partners to reduce the impact of recent disorder at these events, and ultimately keep young people and the wider public safe.
“Our approach very much focuses on preventing anti-social behaviour and minimising any safety concerns, but we will take firm action where individuals continue to knowingly put others at risk.
“We appreciate that most young people are just out to have fun with their friends, but this could easily result in someone getting seriously hurt.”
Chief Inspector Bosson added: “Of course, we want young people to enjoy cycling and exercising in their city, but not at the expense of their safety or others.
“We’ll continue working closely with partners agencies, education settings and families to educate young people around the dangers of group riding and keep them safe.
“However, please know that we will take robust action when it’s needed and appropriate, which could leave your child facing criminal consequences for their actions.”
Officers continue to urge parents and carers to ask their children not to attend any future events and to check in with them as to where they’re heading, and who with, to prevent them getting mixed up in any wrongdoing.
Anyone involved faces action being taken against them, including the seizure of pedal cycles and bikes which have been illegally modified or used in an anti-social manner.
Criminal action could see young people arrested and risk having a criminal record or a referral made to Youth Justice Services.
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Anyone with specific concerns is encouraged to speak with a police team on duty in the city centre.
People can share information and footage by sending Northumbria Police a direct message on social media, or by using 'live chat' and 'report' forms on the force’s website.
Anyone unable to make contact in those ways can call 101, or, in an emergency, or where a crime is taking place, the advice is to always dial 999.
