Police increase stop and search powers after man stabbed in Reading town centre

A man is recovering in hospital after being stabbed in Reading town centre.

The victim, in his early 20s, suffered superficial injuries in the attack on Queen's Walk at around 8.45pm last night.

Thames Valley Police have announced that a Section 60 Order will be in place in the area for 24 hours, giving officers extra powers to carry out stop and search activities.

It is due to expire at 1.30am on Sunday morning.

Inspector John Yallop, based at Newbury police station, said: “We have put this order in place while we carry out our investigation into this incident.

“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.

“I would ask anyone with any information to get in touch with us by calling 101 or via our website, quoting reference number 43220418162.

“We would be particularly interested in receiving any dash-cam or CCTV footage which could help our investigation.

“You can also make a report anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”

The order applies to an area which includes Vastern Road in the north, Queen’s Road in the south, Forbury Road in the east and Caversham Road in the west.

• Police
• Reading
• Stabbing