Extra stop and search powers granted in Widnes

Extra stop and search powers have been granted in Widnes in response to a concerning incident yesterday evening (Friday 7 February).

Officers in Widnes have been given more powers to stop and search anyone they suspect of carrying a weapon.

It was reported that a large group of youths had descended on Widnes Skate Park and chased two young people.

Police with the assistance of armed response officers and the police helicopter made a search of the area and stopped and searched a number of people. No arrests were made, no weapons were found and there no further reports.

As a precaution to prevent any further issues the powers have been granted temporarily under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act (1994).

The order 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.

The powers will be in place from 5pm today (8 February) and remain in place until 7am tomorrow morning (9 February). It applies to the area displayed on the map, namely Victoria Park, bounded by and including Fairfield Road, Appleton Village Road, Birchfield Road and Lockett Road.

Superintendent Sarah Heath said:

“The behaviour of these youths last night was concerning and caused fear and intimidation to residents.

“We are taking a zero tolerance approach to this behaviour by imposing this order and we’re working hard to identify and locate those responsible.

“Along with the order, there will be an additional police presence across the town and anyone believed to be causing disruption in the community will be targeted robustly.

“Anyone who has any concerns about this – or, indeed, any information that can help us – please speak to an officer.”

If you have information about someone who is carrying a weapon, please call Cheshire Police on 101 or go to the website.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.

If a crime is taking place, dial 999 immediately.