Section 60 authorised after knife robberies in Burghfield
A Section 60 order, which allows officers to stop and search anyone within a defined location, has been put in place by Thames Valley Police.
The order temporarily gives officers an enhanced power and 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 are being carried.
It was enacted from 3pm today and continues for a minimum of 24 hours until 3pm tomorrow (22/4).
The order will be reviewed at that point tomorrow with the potential to extend it further.
Currently the Section 60 covers Goring Lane, Padworth Road, Island Farm Road, Shortheath Lane, Sulhamstead Road, Reading Road and James Lane.
The order has been activated due to a connection to knife robberies occurring in the locality of Burghfield yesterday.
Inspector Matt Gow said: “This order has been put in place following yesterday’s incidents in Burghfield.
“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 continuing to appeal to anyone who has any information that may assist with our investigation into the assault, and would you to make contact with us either online or by calling 101 with reference number 43220170905.
“If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can provide information to the independent charity Crimestoppers online or on 0800 555 111.”
More information on Stop & Search can be found on the Thames Valley Police website: https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/st-s/stop-and-search/