Extra stop and search powers introduced in parts of Leeds
It comes a day after two men were attacked in Chapeltown by a gang with weapons.
Increased stop and search powers have been put in place temporarily in Leeds to prevent serious violence and keep communities safe following an incident yesterday (Tuesday 4th April).
Senior officers at Leeds District have authorised the use of Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 to detect and deter the carrying of offensive weapons in the area and to prevent serious violence.
The order covers an area from the A61 at Sheepscar up Scott Hill Road into Moortown and back down the A58 to its junction with Harehills Lane.
The authorisation came into effect at 1.30am today (Wednesday 5th April) for an initial 24 hours and its continuation will be subject to regular reviews.
It gives police officers the power to search people or vehicles for offensive weapons or dangerous instruments without them having to have their usual grounds to suspect each person searched.
It follows an incident in Louis Street, Chapeltown at approximately 11.11pm yesterday (Tuesday 4th April) when two males were attacked by a group of males with weapons.
Both suffered serious injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.
Officers are increasing their patrols and presence in the area to deter any further incidents and reassure the community.
They say:
"Maintaining the trust and confidence of the community is vital and we are continuing to liaise with key community representatives, including the district's Independent Advisory Group, to ensure appropriate scrutiny and accountability around the use of this additional power."