Extra police powers in Wigan after threats of violence
The Section 60 order has been in place overnight in the Platt Bridge area
Police have been granted extra stop and search powers overnight in an area of Wigan, after a spate of threats of violence and criminal damage.
A Section 60 order - a temporary measure to allow officers to search anyone without reasonable grounds for suspicion - was put in place by Greater Manchester Police for Platt Bridge from Wednesday night at 10pm, until 7am this morning.
It has been granted by a senior officer, after three incidents of violence on 2 May 2023.
There was also a further incident on Wednesday evening of youths with weapons wearing balaclavas. They are suspected to have caused extensive property damage and also to have made threats of violence.
In a statement, GMP said: "From Wednesday 3 May 2023 at 10pm until 7am tomorrow (Thursday 4 May 2023) Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has authorised the use of Section 60 powers"
"This has been implemented in relation to three incidents of violence in the Platt Bridge area on 2 May 2023. A further incident has also been reported tonight (3 May 2023) of youths with weapons wearing balaclavas. They are suspected to have caused extensive property damage and also to have made threats of violence.
"GMP understand the use of a Section 60 can cause concern to residents, however, the use of these powers is only authorised when it is proportionate and necessary."