SHOP staff being threatened with weapons and other thuggish behaviour has led to a crackdown by police and council chiefs. Police said there were 120 reports of criminal damage, threatening behaviour with weapons and thefts and intimidation of shop staff

SHOP staff being threatened with weapons and other thuggish behaviour has led to a crackdown by police and council chiefs.

Police said there were 120 reports of criminal damage, threatening behaviour with weapons and thefts and intimidation of shop staff with weapons in the past three months in Harlesden and Barnhill.

One shop worker welcomed the move.

Richard Owu, of the Charisma Christian Bookshop in Station Road, Harlesden, said his shop had been targeted for theft in recent years.

He said: "I think this is a good idea because we need to bring the crime rate down."

Police said there were also complaints about loitering, loud and aggressive behaviour, threats made with weapons, fighting with weapons and gang activity.

Sergeant Arif Malik, of the Harlesden Safer Neighbourhoods Team said: "We are responding to concerns of residents in the area and are working with the council to resolve these issues. We hope that this dispersal order gives us the means to improve the quality of life for the local community and local businesses."

The Harlesden dispersal zone will run from 12 pm on March 29 until 12 pm on September 29, while the Barnhill zone will run from midnight on April 1 and until midnight on October 1.

Officers explained that the dispersal zones will allow police to disperse groups who are causing anti-social behaviour.

Anyone found guilty of contravening a direction under a dispersal order can face up to three months imprisonment or a fine of up to �2,500.

Sgt Malik asked the public to contact officers if they see anti-social behaviour.

He said: "Please contact us on 020 8721 2051, we work on a shift pattern so if we do not answer, leave us a message and we will get back to you.