Police are appealing for information and have issued a warning after a group of eight children are believed to have set several fires in a County Durham town, including near to a care home.
Consett and Stanley policing team said that the anti-social behaviour incidents happened in Stanley town centre on Monday (October 21).
Following the incident, police have warned that these incidents in Stanley led to firefighters being diverted to these calls, rather than attend actual emergencies.
In a statement, the neighbourhood policing team said: "Tonight, PCSOs 30268 Connah and 8891 Burnip conducted additional patrols as part of Operation Trailblazer to tackle anti-social behaviour.
"Unfortunately, officers have had to assist County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service with several fires in Stanley Town Centre, including near a care home.
"This has meant the fire crews have had to divert from other ongoing incidents to attend these within the Town Centre, created by a group of 7-8 youths.
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"Not only is it a criminal offence, you are also endangering yourself and other members of the public with your actions.
"CCTV footage has been requested to ID the youths involved due to them giving the police the runaround. An investigation and enquiries will be conducted so that those involved can be dealt with appropriately."
People who have information or CCTV are asked to contact Elliot.connah@durham.police.ukor Sophie.burnip@durham.police.uk.
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