Extra stop and search powers granted in Widnes
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Extra stop and search powers have been granted in Widnes in response to a concerning incident today (Saturday 15 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 in Bechers and chased a man.
Officers attended and made a search of the area. 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 6.23pm today (15 February) and will remain in place until 6pm tomorrow (16 February). It applies to the area displayed on the map, namely Bechers, bounded by and including Hough Green Road, Prescott Road, and the B5178.
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Superintendent Sam Billington said: “The behaviour of these youths 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 visit the website.
You can also provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.
If a crime is taking place, dial 999 immediately.