The viral posts, shared on TikTok and Snapchat, framed after-school meetups as colour-coded confrontations between rival schools across London.
Graphics listed dozens of schools on opposing “Red” and “Blue” teams, with some posts encouraging pupils to film incidents or bring everyday school items that could be used as weapons.
Over in Tower Hamlets, the trend evolved into its own version with a “Green vs Black” colour scheme, though the theme remained entirely identical to its sister.
As the content spread, schools issued urgent letters to parents warning children not to attend gatherings or share posts.
Police stepped up patrols around school gates and transport hubs, and Section 35 dispersal orders were put in place in some boroughs as a precaution.
The Metropolitan Police said it was monitoring online activity and working with schools to disrupt and deter potential disorder.
Around a dozen social media accounts were disabled after threats or encouragement of violence were identified.
Despite the scale of the online circulation, police have not confirmed any widespread organised incidents linked to the trend, with the scheduled gatherings effectively not taking place.
The episode has raised broader questions about the role of social media in escalating situations.
Did online posts amplify fear and encourage copycat behaviour?
Or did rapid sharing allow schools, parents and police to act early and prevent harm?
So we’re asking readers: Did social media make the ‘Red vs Blue’ situation worse?
Cast your vote and share your thoughts in the comments.
