AN SNP MSP has written to constituents with his concerns for public safety after seven youths between 12 and 16 were charged amid a crime spree in two communities.

Seven young people are confirmed by Police Scotland to have been charged in connection with several crimes in Aberdeen in February and March.

Residents in Stockethill and Cornhill have said they lived in "fear" and "misery".

The six boys and one girl are accused of taking part in vandalism, wilful fire-raising, theft by house-breaking, threatening and abusive behaviour, shoplifting and hoax calls to emergency services.

Kevin Stewart, MSP for Aberdeen Central, wrote to residents affected to share his own concerns and that he had contacted Police Scotland with hopes the issues are "nipped in the bud".

READ MORE: Scottish village in fear of 'aggressive' youth gang

He wrote: "I have been contacted by several of my constituents in your neighbourhood about anti-social behaviour in the areas of Cornhill and Stockethill which is creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the community.

“This behaviour appears to be mainly carried out by younger people and ranges from vandalism and damage to property to more violent and aggressive acts. I understand that some members of the community are now hesitant to report crimes that they witness due to perceived inaction or an insufficient response from the police.

“This type of behaviour is a perennial problem and tends to flare up in an area before dying down again. However, it can feed on itself to create an even worse problem if perpetrators feel they can get away with it and ordinary residents feel that nothing is being done.

“I feel that the issue has reached the point at which it may spiral towards a worse situation if not nipped in the bud. I have therefore written to Police Scotland to ask them to put a particular focus on this issue in Cornhill and Stockethill.”

READ MORE: Police Scotland charge boy, 14, and girl, 12, with assault of elderly woman | The National

PC Jamie Young from the North Community Team told the Press and Journal that officers are working with other services, including the local council, to identify where youth could be diverted from taking these actions and to prevent future offending.

“Anti-social behaviour such as this causes misery for residents and this action sends a clear message that it will not be tolerated," Young said.

He added: “We continue to engage with parents and guardians to ensure that they are aware of the impact of this kind of behaviour.

“We also work closely with partner agencies such as social work, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the local authority to identify opportunities for diversionary work and prevent future offending.

“Feedback has been positive, and we encourage anyone who experiences instances of anti-social behaviour or has concerns to contact Police Scotland on 101, or in an emergency call 999.”