Police in a UK city have implemented special measures tonight in response to concerns of potential disturbances. A Section 60 order has been put into effect in Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, following reports of possible violence and the discovery of a hammer in a vehicle. The designated area under the Section 60 order includes Boathorse Road and surrounding streets, with the order set to remain active until 11pm.
Under this order, officers are granted the authority to conduct stop-and-search procedures on individuals suspected of involvement in violent or weapon-related activities without requiring specific grounds. They are also empowered to request the removal of any masks or face coverings. A heightened police presence has been observed in the Hollywall Lane vicinity of Tunstall earlier today.
A spokesperson from Staffordshire Police stated, “We are utilizing Section 60 powers in Tunstall, enabling stop and search actions for weapons, along with the authority for officers to demand the removal of face coverings.” Section 60 permits uniformed officers to conduct searches on pedestrians and vehicle occupants for offensive weapons without the need for suspicion. The decision to implement this power requires approval from senior officers, typically of Superintendent rank or higher, based on the belief of existing or imminent serious violence in the area.
It is emphasized by Staffordshire Police that the Section 60 order will not result in indiscriminate stops, and officers will adhere to standard stop-and-search protocols, including providing explanations, specifying the search objective, citing the relevant legislation, recording interactions using body-worn cameras, and offering receipts to those stopped.