Section 60 stop and search powers introduced this evening covering part of Bolton

We have authorised a Section 60 order covering part of the Harper Green and Smithills areas of Bolton in response to an incident of violent disorder yesterday, where officers arrested five teenagers and seized a knife.

The Section 60 was authorised to prevent further acts of violence and will extend until 02:28am tomorrow (Friday, 29 March 2024).

These temporary additional powers allow officers to stop and search anyone in the area shown in the maps below.

Police Sergeant James Astbury of GMP’s Bolton District said: “The additional powers granted this afternoon demonstrate our robust approach to incidents of this nature.

“Although this is thought to be an isolated incident between groups known to one another, we understand the impact incidents like these can have on communities.  

“ There will be an increase in police presence in the area and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with officers on patrol, and we would ask anyone who has any information on yesterday’s altercation, including knowing the identities of those involved, to contact GMP on 101, or in the case of an emergency 999, quoting log 1806 of 28/04/2024.

“Any piece of information could assist officers as they progress the investigation.”