TWO teenagers arrested as part of a major crackdown on graffiti in the Medway Towns have been charged with criminal damage.

Neighbourhood police officers on Thursday executed warrants at three houses in the area. Three teenagers were arrested and spray-paint, marker pens and artwork books seized.

A 16-year-old boy from Gillingham and a 17-year-old boy from Rochester are due to appear at a youth court on Tuesday (January 23).

A 14-year-old Gillingham girl arrested on suspicion of criminal damage has been bailed to Medway Police Station pending further enquiries.

The arrests came after members of the Neighbourhood Policing Unit had noticed an increase in specific tags in the area.

Insp Mat Newton, who co-ordinated the action, said: "Our efforts demonstrate that we take the problem of graffiti seriously. It causes thousands of pounds worth of damage, looks unsightly and makes people feel fearful.

"It can give the impression that an area suffers more crime that it actually does and robs people of the chance to have a pleasant neighbourhood that they can be proud of."

Keith Hanshaw, head of traffic and waste services at Medway council, said: "Residents must appreciate the negative impact graffiti can have on individuals and communities.

"We fully support this initiative and welcome this partnership working with Kent Police. My message is to these individuals is please appreciate your environment and the hurt you are causing to many people by your inappropriate actions."