Extra stop and search powers given to police for large parts of Walsall over violent disorder fears
Walsall police are carrying out stop and searches in parts of the borough amid fears of violent behaviour.
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West Midlands Police has issued a new Section 60 order covering Walsall, Willenhall, Darlaston, Bloxwich town centres and surrounding communities to include Caldmore, New Invention, Blakenall, Goscote, Delves, Pleck and part of Rushall.
Inspector Phil Upton, of Walsall LPA, said: “We don’t use section 60 powers lightly, but we will use all our powers to ensure the safety of people in the area.”
Put into force overnight, the order will remain in place until 10am today.
Section 60 powers allow officers to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds.
There will also be extra officers on the streets tonight over the coming days to offer reassurance to members of the public.
Notices showing residents which areas come under the order have been published.