Enhanced stop and search powers in place in Nelson and Brierfield
Burnley and Padiham Police say the powers are in force after a man was seriously assaulted with a weapon in the area
Last updated 21st Jul 2024
Officers in Nelson and Brierfield have temporary enhanced stop and search powers this morning, after a man was seriously assaulted with a weapon in the area.
Detectives say they think the attack was targeted against the man, and say there’s not a wider threat to the public.
However, the Section 60 authority is now in place, meaning officers are allowed to also stop and search people and vehicles without suspicion, in a bid to help keep the local community safe.
The powers came into force at 22:45 yesterday (December 16), and runs until 10:45 today (December 17).
The section 60 powers will be in force as per the map below.
In a statement, police said: "Sometimes ordinary stop and search powers aren't enough. Enhanced Section 60 powers allow us to stop and search people and vehicles without suspicion but are only put in place when we believe incidents involving serious violence may take place or that people will be carrying dangerous/offensive weapons, or an incident involving serious violence has taken place and dangerous instruments/offensive weapons used in that incident are being carried in the area.
"They are there to prevent crime and disorder and also to keep you safe and feeling safe. You should be re-assured to see a really visible policing presence in the area.
"However, if you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to speak to one of our officers.
"The powers are usually in place for up to 24 hours and we are obliged to tell people about them – hence this post. We will post again on this page to let you know the results of the powers being in place and whether there is going to be any extension of them.
"Thanks for your co-operation and support."
If you want to know more about Section 60 powers, and how we use them, check out the details here, on the Lancashire Police website.