Police have been granted extra stop and search powers in Laindon following reports groups have been seen carrying weapons.
Officers received reports about three separate incidents of a group of men or teenagers seen with large knives, baseball bats or shovels yesterday (Thursday 19 August) in the Somercotes area.
Because of this, additional stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 have been authorised.
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This is an extension of the stop and search powers officers already have, but means they do not need to have reasonable grounds to carry out a stop and search.
The order will be in place until 8.30am today (Friday, August 20) and covers the Somercotes area.
Inspector Dan McHugh said: “We will not tolerate people coming here intent on committing crime these extended powers are just one of the tools we have available to protect the public.
“If you are in the area overnight you will see an increased police presence but please do not be alarmed.
“I want to thank the public in advance for their understanding and co-operation.”
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