Man Banned from Gloucester City Centre for Harassing Women and Girls

Afzul Veshmia, a 45-year-old resident of Russell Street, Gloucester, has been issued a 12-month ban from substantial parts of Gloucester city centre due to ongoing harassment of women and young girls.

Veshmia’s behaviour had caused significant distress and fear among members of the public, especially young females, who experienced intimidation and various forms of anti-social conduct as they went about their daily routines.

In response, Gloucester City Council secured a Civil Injunction against Veshmia, effective until May 18, 2027. The injunction prohibits him from entering large areas of the city centre, setting fires in public spaces, and possessing large objects such as tree branches that could be used as weapons.

This legal action was pursued through the council’s City Centre Engagement Service, a new initiative targeting anti-social behaviour in the area. The move comes amid concerns after Gloucester was highlighted as one of the UK’s top 20 most violent locations.

Morag Gordon, an engagement officer with Gloucester City Council, stated, “This civil injunction sends a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Gloucester. Thanks to the courage of the victims who provided crucial evidence, we have been able to secure this order.”

Inspector James O’Neill from Gloucester’s Neighbourhood Policing Team added, “Veshmia’s repeated intimidating conduct has caused serious public concern. This injunction empowers us to act swiftly against any breaches. Since it was imposed, Veshmia has been arrested twice for violations, demonstrating the order’s effectiveness.”

The court’s order forbids Veshmia from engaging in intimidating or threatening behaviour and attaches a power of arrest for any breaches under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime & Policing Act 2014. The injunction remains in force until its expiration or until further court action.