Children caused carnage on Liverpool's waterfront yesterday, throwing stones and bottles at passers-by, including street furniture being hurled around.
Seven boys were arrested following the disturbance at about 6pm on Wapping, close to the Baltic Fleet pub, aged 13, 14 and 15.
Police were called after reports that youths were causing a nuisance close to The Strand, with witnesses telling of missiles being thrown around by children.
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It was also reported that they had also entered a Tesco Express store on Wapping and caused a disturbance among customers and staff.
Damage was also caused to a car and it was reported that entry had been gained to a nearby apartment and damage caused inside.
More damage was caused to the windscreen of a police car.
Officers attended at the scene and carried out an area search.
Witnesses said there were up to 50 children causing mayhem, and told how one man was mobbed and "roughed up" by the unruly gang.
The children, arrested on suspicion of burglary, criminal damage and public order offences, were returned home to their families.
Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.
Liverpool community policing inspector Charlotte Irlam, of Merseyside Police, said: “This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable.
"I would ask parents to be aware of where their children are and what they are doing, particular as the school holidays approach.
“Merseyside Police will continue to take a strong stance against antisocial behaviour and will take all necessary action, including introducing dispersal zones, to prevent incidents such as this from reoccurring.
“Seven youths have been detained in connection with the incident and their families spoken to. Enquiries remain ongoing.”
Anyone with any information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111.
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