POLICE have launched additional stop and search powers to officers after reports of weapons.

A Section 60 has been issued in part of Basildon after Essex Police were alerted to a fight at High Street, where it was reported that weapons had been seen.

This order means officers will not need to have reasonable grounds to carry out a stop and search of persons in area.

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It was authorised yesterday evening at 7:22pm and will be in place until 7:22pm today, covering the area highlighted in the map.

Inspector Danny Barnes, Basildon LPT, said: “The additional stop and search powers have been authorised as a precaution following reports of a fight involving a large number of people.

“When we attended, we recovered a number of discarded weapons, including bats and knives. 

“The use of these powers is not a decision we take lightly and are in place to keep the community of Basildon and its residents safe.

“You will see officers patrolling the area to identify anyone intent on committing crime and we encourage anyone who has concerns to speak to us directly or contact us on 101.”