Police seized fireworks from a 13-year-old boy during a stop and search on Halloween, against a backdrop of serious violence in Greenwich earlier in the month.

More fireworks-related violence occurred in the days leading up to Bonfire Night. Greenwich West Police released a statement on Twitter:

There is growing support for a crackdown on unbranded fireworks, which could be used as weapons by young people.

Danny Thorpe, leader of Labour-controlled Greenwich Council, has also publicly urged parents to take responsibility. He said parents should “make sure your children are heading home after school”.

In run-up to Bonfire Night, Greenwich suffered other incidents of youth violence and anti-social behaviour. Hundreds of youths burnt an effigy of Prime Minister Boris Johnson and threw fireworks at police, leaving eight officers injured.

The disorder is partly attributed to shorter days. According to CrimeRate, a privately run project that tracks crime and safety statistics, violence is very common in Greenwich borough. On November 1, following incidents of firework misuse, the council tweeted: “It is illegal to light fireworks (including sparklers) between 11pm and 7am. This curfew is extended to midnight for bonfire night and Diwali.”