Story: Lisa Swift
A fight between two boys in Page Hall at about 7pm on Monday 19th May, escalated into fighting which involved around 25 men.
Police responded to the incident and used a section 60 order, which allows them to stop and search and disperse anyone in the area for 24 hours. Five arrests were made of three boys aged 15, 16 and 17 years and two men aged 27 and 28 years.
The original fight started between a Yemeni boy and a Slovakian boy.
The Messenger spoke to the chair of the Yemeni Community Association, Mohammed Al-Shaebi who told us,
"It was a small issue that escalated. But there were several incidents since Monday, which made me very concerned that those involved would continue fighting. I am going to meet with members of the Slovakian community so that we can help to sort this out, what we want to see is those involved talking to each other.
“We have got to talk about a long term solution in Page Hall. My parents faced racism in the 50s and 60s, and we don't want to see that happening again for the Slovakian community. There is positive work to be done to break down barriers and increase understanding. And young people have got to realise that their actions can have a very big impact on their community, on their friends,neighbours and families.”
The police released a string of press statements about the incident stating:
“Monday's incident is the only one of this nature that Page Hall has experienced in recent months and the amount of reported crime and disorder in the area has consistently reduced. By working with partner agencies, including the local authority, environmental health, education, licensing and the voluntary sector, action is regularly taken to tackle a number of issues and problems, and action will continue in the area.”
The police are also funding a pilot project at Earl Marshal youth centre, in partnership with Sheffield Futures, which will run 3 nights a week 8-10.30pm. The aim of the club is to provide a safe space for young people to meet each other and encourage integration.
Workers at PACA (Pakistan Advice and Community Association) are also working with the police to reduce local tensions.
Logged in users of the website can add comments to this page.
Login to this site if you'd like to add a comment. Sign-up for an account if you are not currently a member.