Extra police powers in parts of Cheshire to tackle violent disorder
Dispersal orders have been put in place in three towns.
Police in parts of Cheshire have been given more powers to tackle any violent disorder.
While there have been no incidents of rioting, a dispersal order has been put in place in Crewe, Widnes and Warrington, to allow officers to react to any incidents.
It follows speculation about possible planned protests across the country.
The orders, in place from 4pm yesterday, allow officers to ban anyone from the areas for up to 48 hours to prevent disorder.
They have been imposed under Section 34 of the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
In addition, officers in the three towns have also been given additional stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act (1994).
The orders means that officers can stop and search any person or vehicle they believe may be carrying weapons or causing serious violence in a particular area, whether or not they have any grounds of suspicion.
Chief Superintendent Jon Betts said: “I would like to assure the public that this is just one of the ways we are utilising the powers available to us to prevent any potential disorder.
“Along with the order you will see an increased police presence - this has all been put in place to reassure the community.”