"Gang Asbo" Injunction Sparks Controversy Over Human Rights

Strategic Insights -

A notorious teenager from Peckham, who was given the country's first "gang Asbo" (Anti-Social Behaviour Order), plans to appeal against the punishment, claiming it breaches his human rights. The 18-year-old was barred by a court from entering parts of Southwark, a move aimed at tackling postcode gang wars. The injunction, which lasts up to two years with possible jail terms for breaches, also prohibits the teenager from being involved in music videos promoting violence and from inciting violence through social networking websites.

Key Takeaways:

  • The teenager, a talented musician, was given the country's first "gang Asbo" after being associated with violent gangsters and serving a jail sentence for possession of a weapon.
  • The injunction prohibits the teenager from entering parts of Southwark, associating with other known gang members, and being involved in music videos promoting violence.
  • The teenager's mother claims the order is "illegal" and breaches her son's human rights, stating that he has turned his life around and enrolled in college.
  • The case has raised concerns over the limits of anti-social behavior orders and their potential impact on young people's lives.
  • The teenager's arrest and imprisonment at the age of 15 were cited as evidence in the injunction, despite his claims of rehabilitation.
  • The case has sparked debate over the effectiveness of the new laws in tackling gang violence and protecting communities.
  • Similar rules for those aged 14 to 17 will be tested in the spring.

Statistics:

  • 5 boroughs, including Southwark, are targeted by the Met and other agencies due to gang violence.
  • The Peckham Boys, or Black Gang, is one of the most well-known groups, consisting of factions such as Pecknarm Young Gunners (PYG), SN1 (Spare Noone), and Peckham Kids (PK).
  • Children as young as 12 are affiliated with these groups, which have created hiphop videos glorifying their lifestyle.
  • 1 innocent teenager, Rio McFarlane, was gunned down in a drive-by shooting in September last year in Southwark.

Sources:

  • "Troublemaker given gang Asbo", The Standard, no publication date.
  • "Gang violence: 5 London boroughs targeted", BBC News, no publication date.