Three incidents involving anti-social groups of youths on campus seem to be the cause of the month-long evening restrictions.
On January 28, a 14-year-old boy assaulted three security staff after he and a group of others were approached for anti-social behaviour. The staff were uninjured and the boy was charged.
The next day, two microphones were stolen from a lecture theatre. CCTV is being reviewed, but a group of youths are believed to be responsible.
However, it is unconfirmed if it is the same group on campus the evening before.
The same youth involved in the assault is suspected to have stolen alcohol from Nisa on January 31.
Evening Curfew
On February 3, less than a week after the assault took place, the University suddenly announced an evening curfew, restricting access to Cottrell, RG Bomont and Iris Murdoch buildings between 7 pm – 7 am.
The decision was initially controversial, with a lack of information surrounding the accessibility of evening society meetings and activities.
Brig posted about the decision on Instagram, where one user commented: “What a stupid decision. This will surely cause issues with clubs and societies accessing spaces as well as other groups I would imagine.”
However, all University facilities were still accessible through the Queen’s Court Reception in the Cottrell Building or via an accessible route for those who could not access Queen’s Court.
All restrictions were lifted on March 3, with no explanation as to what prompted them.
University Response
The University decided on the curfew without consulting the Student’s Union, who found out when the student body did. No preparations were made for societies until after the announcement was made.
The University was asked if the incidents were related to the curfew. A representative responded: “This is a matter for Police Scotland”.
Campus targeted for crime
This is not the first time the University has had issues in the past year. Last July, a youth smashed a computer screen and another stole cleaning items. In November, photographic equipment was also stolen from the grounds.
In both cases, it is unclear if the suspects were identified or charged.
Featured Image Credit: Brig Newspaper
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