Powers allowing police to boot troublemaking youngsters out of Finsbury Park and Holloway have been re-introduced after more than 300 youths flooded the area.

The dispersal zone came into force at 9am on Tuesday and means officers can ask anyone under 16 they deem to be involved in antisocial behaviour to leave the area bordered by Isledon Road, Tollington Road, Hornsey Road, Tollington Park and Fonthill Road. If they refuse they can be arrested.

The emergency measure comes in response to last week’s mayhem on Andover Estate, in the middle of the dispersal zone, which saw between 300 and 400 youths run riot at a party with reports of gunshots and four casualties.

Concerns

And the party itself was said to be a celebration to mark the end of the previous dispersal zone – imposed in the same area for six months ahead of the trial of five men in connection with the brutal murder of Andrew Jaipaul.

Cllr Paul Convery, Islington Council’s executive member for community safety, said: “We’re committed to tackling antisocial behaviour and crime in Islington, together with police.

“We’ve taken prompt action after community concerns about recent antisocial behaviour caused by a large group of people visiting from outside the area.

“The dispersal zone makes it easier for police to take action and will give extra protection to residents.”

Det Ch Supt Gerry Campbell Islington’s borough commander said: “I have met with local residents who are concerned about anti-social behaviour in the area and they have told me that they would like the dispersal zone re-authorised.

“We are listening to these concerns and taking the necessary action to keep people safe by tackling any anti-social behaviour within the Dispersal Zone. Officers have stepped up patrols and have already engaged with many residents; this will continue over the coming weeks.”