In the wake of a disturbing stabbing incident that occurred in Swindon yesterday evening, police have taken immediate action to ensure public safety, putting a section 60 order in place, covering most of the town as well as Highworth.
Police officers responded to a distress call reporting a disorder involving a group of teenagers at Meadowcroft Fields in Upper Stratton shortly after 8 pm. Regrettably, a 17-year-old boy sustained knife injuries during the altercation and was rushed to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, where he remains in critical condition.
The section 60 order, which came into effect at 10:56 pm yesterday, grants police officers the authority to conduct stop and search operations on individuals within the designated area, without requiring specific grounds for suspicion.
Authorities are actively pursuing extensive investigations into the stabbing incident, and as a result, an increased police presence will be maintained in and around Meadowcroft. This serves to reassure residents and deter any potential escalation of violence.
If you witnessed the incident or possess any information that could aid the ongoing investigation, please contact the police promptly at 101, quoting log number 344 of June 8.
Alternatively, you may choose to provide anonymous tips by calling CrimeStoppers at 0800 555111.
What does a Section 60 mean?
It means that police officers can search anyone within a specific area and time frame. The police officer doesn’t need to have reasonable grounds to stop and search you, but they must explain the reasons you are being stopped, including that there is a Section 60 in place.
Why are Section 60s put in place?
A Section 60 is put in place if an Inspector or above believes that people will be:
- carrying weapons or
- causing serious violence or
- incidents involving serious violence MAY take place.
It’s there to keep people safe. When a Section 60 is in place anyone can be stopped and searched by the police.
What limitations are placed around a Section 60?
Time: A Section 60 can be put in place for up to 24 hours and may then be extended after this for up to another 24 hours.
Place: When a Section 60 is agreed it is limited to a specific area or group of streets.
