The mosquito, a machine which emits an annoying sound only young people can hear and is used in Holland to discourage youngsters from hanging around on the streets, should be banned, according to the Council of Europe.

The council said use of the machine contravenes human rights and effectively treats youngsters as vermin, news agency AP reported.
In November 2008, home affairs minister Guusje ter Horst warned local councils that use of the mosquito may be unconstitutional.
The Council of Europe has no powers to actually ban use of the machine but is asking local governments to do so.