Police in Newbury given extra stop and search powers
They say it's to prevent violence in the town
Last updated 15th Sep 2023
Thames Valley Police has enacted a Section 60 order in Newbury.
The order has been put in place in the area bordered by the A339, Greenham Road and Pinchington Lane due to serious violence around Dickens Walk.
The order will be in place for 24 hours and is due to expire at 12pm tomorrow (15/9).
A Section 60 order can only be put in place in a defined area at a specific time when a senior officer believes there is a possibility of serious violence, or weapons being carried.
The order temporarily enhances powers for officers, meaning they can stop and search anyone in a designated area, shown on the map below.
The order will be reviewed tomorrow and may be extended further.
Inspector Alan Hawkett, based at Newbury police station, said:
“We have put this Section 60 order in place in a specific area of Newbury following serious violence and to prevent potential further violence.
“The order will give our officers extra powers to carry out stop and search activity, and has been enacted for the safety of the public.
“I understand that an order of this nature could cause concern, but while it 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 while 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.”