Police have been cracking down on anti-social behaviour involving youths in Aberdeen city centre.
The force said an operation had been launched following complaints about large groups congregating around shopping centres and officers were stepping up visibility during the school holidays.
City centre sergeant David Cowie promised a “robust approach” to any criminality.
He said: ”We have become aware of issues in the city centre relating to groups of youths congregating.
“Whilst the majority of those who meet aren’t causing issues for retailers or other shoppers, and we don’t want to spoil anyone out socialising, we do want to ensure that no criminality takes place.
“The school Easter holidays will see more young people coming into the city centre to socialise, shop and enjoy trips to the cinema and so our patrols will continue during the holiday period too.
“The city centre has a lot to offer people of all ages and we certainly don’t want to deter anyone from coming into the town to socialise, however we do ask that people are respectful of others and behave responsibly.
“In the event where any criminality takes place we will take a robust approach and anyone found to be responsible will be reported to the relevant authority, be it the procurator fiscal or the Youth Justice Management Unit. “
The operation is running until Sunday, April 14.