‘Gangs’ in Abingdon ‘worrying’ shoppers after roof break-in

One shopper has come forward to describe the growing issue of what he says are school-age youngsters meeting in the town centre and ‘intimidating’ the public.

It comes after the most recent incident of anti-social behaviour occurred on Monday, April 13, when two individuals broke into the roof of the Abingdon Eye Centre in Bury Street.

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Police responded to reports of the break-in, where eyewitnesses said damage was caused to the white wooden access door onto the roof, but the individuals had gone by the time they arrived.

The Bury Street precinct in Abingdon (Image: Andy Ffrench)

Charles, who did not want to share his surname, witnessed the break-in from Abingdon Library and said the roof is frequently a target of ‘mischief’.

“Steel gates and fencing was put in about two years ago in response to the intrusions, but it would appear this has been circumvented by teenagers who seem to think its cool to go up onto the roof and cause mischief,” he said.

“The shopping centre has suffered for years as a point where teenagers congregate with the intention of engaging in annoying and insulting behaviour.

“In the past few years gangs have congregated on scooters and bikes, alarming and distressing passersby with insulting yelled comments and intimidating behaviour, even throwing things.

“Some shoppers are too scared now to go into town, particularly in the afternoons. ”

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A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “We received a report at around 2.40pm on Monday, 13 April, that two individuals were on the roof of the Abingdon Eye Centre in Bury Street.

“Officers attended the scene, but were unable to locate anyone on the roof.

“Anyone who witnesses antisocial behaviour is encouraged to report it to us.

“Please call 999 in an emergency where there is an immediate threat to life, 101 for non-emergencies, or report online via our website.”