‘Killer Clown’ craze hits UK soil

Recent sightings of ‘killer clowns’ jumping out of bushes and chasing members of the public have been reported all over the UK. One police force reportedly received six reports in five days.

These clown hoaxes originated on college campuses in the US, when people dressed in horrifying clown costumes and scared pedestrians walking by. Officers in the UK are warning that these antics could land pranksters in serious trouble.

Newcastle was one of the areas to first report clown sightings in Britain. A spokesperson for the Northumbria Police said a teenager from Blakelaw was arrested in connection with a ‘clown’ incident. He then added that a “bladed article” was found on the teenager.

Schoolchildren across Newcastle have so far been the target of the clown pranksters, leaving them traumatised and “distressed”.

So far, no one has been attacked or injured, but the police force has received numerous reports of clowns chasing passers-by down local streets.

Inspector Stephen Wykes of Central Area Command said: “The people carrying out these pranks may think they’re being funny but it’s leaving a number of young people incredibly distressed.”

“Parents of the children affected, and teachers at our local schools, are understandably concerned and we are working closely with them as this is not something we want to see happening in our local community.”

“There have only been a handful of these incidents, which we think have been inspired by a trend in America, but we are keen to stop them before they cause anyone else further distress.”

“We are keen to identify those people who are dressing up as clowns so we can speak to them about their conduct and establish whether any criminal offence has taken place.”

A spokesman for the police commented on the arrest of the Blakelaw teenager: “This arrest should act as a clear warning to others who are actively seeking to cause distress and potentially harm others.”

“This behaviour will not be tolerated and extra officers will be on hand to offer reassurance and catch those responsible for any criminal offences which have taken place.”

This sinister craze has now reportedly arrived in Manchester. There has been a flurry of panic on social media, but no incidents have been reported—yet.