A BOY of 15 was allegedly found in possession of two large kitchen knives after being stopped by police in Helensburgh last week.

The teenager was also reportedly found with cans of spray paint after officers stopped to speak with a group of youths in Hermitage Park on the evening of Wednesday, June 24.

The area has reportedly been the location of recent vandalisms and anti-social behaviour.

One of the youths is said to have run off as the officers stopped but was apprehended nearby after a foot chase; he told police he had started running because he was in possession of a knife and spray paint.

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Following a check of his bag, officers recovered two large kitchen knives and a number of cans of spray paint and the youth was identified as a teenager from the local area.

He was returned home and charged with possession of the weapons, and a report will be sent to the Children’s Reporter.

Police say an enquiry is ongoing to link the possession of the spray paint to recent vandalism incidents in the area.

Vandalism has been a problem in the park for many years, both before and during its ongoing £3.3 million regeneration.

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