Police search after knife gang spotted in west Reading
Police used a helicopter to search an area of Tilehurst
Last updated 16th Aug 2022
Police have used a helicopter to search part of west Reading after a gang of men carrying knives were seen.
Police say at 8.18pm the men were seen with knives at the junction of Pottery Road and Norcot Road next to McIlroy Park.
A section 60 order has been authorised giving Police extra stop and search powers.
The Section 60 order covers the area shown on the map: by Oxford Road, Grovelands Road, Water Road, Tilehurst Road, The Meadway, Mayfair, Lower Elmstone Drive and Overdown Road.
Inspector Matthew Rees said:
“This order has been put in place following an incident of public order in the Reading area.
“This order is in place to ensure public safety, while also giving police extra power to search people who they think could be involved in violence, and to take weapons off the street.
“I understand that an order of this nature could cause concern, but whilst a Section 60 order may sound alarming, enhancing our stop and search powers provides us with another tactic to quickly identify and disrupt those carrying weapons.
“If you are stopped by an officer, please do not be worried as this does not mean that you are in trouble. You will see more police officers in the area whilst the order is in place and we expect to carry out more stop and searches than usual.
“Officers who are out and about are there to reassure you as well as using their powers under Section 60 so please do stop and speak with them about any concerns that you have.
“We are appealing to anyone who has any information about either of these incidents to contact police, either online or by calling 101 quoting reference number 43220365331.
“If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can provide information to the independent charity Crimestoppers online or on 0800 555 111.”