Investigation launched after yobs smash windows of TWO buses with passengers on board in Houghton

The damage to one of the buses following an attack in Houghton

Pictures of the damage to one of the buses were shared by Northumbria Police after thugs threw stones as the bus carried passengers through the town.

It has now been revealed that windows of two buses were smashed while they travelled through the Church Street areas of the town on Monday, February 17, evening.

The most recent attacks follows a string of disturbances in the town and neighbouring Hetton which led Northumbria Police to launch Operation Avalanche – which saw dispersal orders and stop checks put in place.

The damage caused to the bus after yobs threw stones at buses carrying passengers

Following the latest incident, officers say those responsible can expect to receive a knock at their door.

Sergeant Simon Marshall, of Northumbria Police, said: “On both occasions, a group of youths have thrown stones at the window of bus that was travelling in the Church Street area of the town, causing significant damage.

“Intentional acts of criminal damage are totally unacceptable and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible. We are committed to taking swift and robust action against anybody found to be involved.

“Officers will be visiting the parents of any young people found to be involved in this type of anti-social behaviour, and are also carrying out school visits over the coming weeks to ensure this message is heard loud and clear. Dispersal notices will also be considered in the area to prevent large groups from congregating.

The incidents happened in the Church Street area.

“Through Operation Avalanche, we have already seen some fantastic results in the Hetton and Houghton areas tackling anti-social behaviour, detecting and disrupting crime and offering reassurance to residents. That work is very much ongoing and we will continue to do all we can to minimise and prevent these types of incidents.

“Uniformed and plain-clothed officers will continue to carry out dedicated patrols in the area, along with our partners at Sunderland City Council, and our message is clear.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and anyone found to have been involved can expect a knock on their door.”