FIVE teenagers have been arrested in connection with a wave of antisocial behaviour blamed on a gang of youths who "terrorise" a York suburb.

Officers today revealed that they had already stepped up operations in the Green Lane area of Acomb following complaints about a small group of nuisance youths.

The Evening Press yesterday reported how Rolf Watson, 34, of Green Lane, was left bleeding after being punched in the face by a teenager. He had remonstrated with 20 youths after one of them scratched his car with a bike.

Today Sergeant Mike Stubbs, who is responsible for the area, said five youths had been arrested over the past four days for separate incidents of public order and damage to cars and a telephone box. He said more arrests were expected.

He said council tenants who were found to be involved in the disorder could face losing their homes if their conduct was found to breach their rent agreement.

"We have also identified a number of youths who have not committed criminal offences but whose behaviour is unacceptable to the community," he said. "They will be visited by police officers and steps will be taken to address their conduct."

People in the area said Mr Watson's attack was the latest in a long line of incidents and claim they are being terrorised. They are calling for CCTV cameras.

Iain Angus, manager of Acomb Pharmacy, in Green Lane, said his elderly customers were regularly sworn at and abused by the gang. "It's just getting way out of line," he said. "The youths come down here and cause trouble every single night.."

Richard Dodsworth, who runs Circle Cleaners, in Green Lane, said the gang rammed their bikes into his shop window.

Police urged any residents who can identify youths who have committed offences to contact them on 01904 631321 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Updated: 10:15 Thursday, June 24, 2004