Police have been given special powers overnight following fears of potential violent disorder in Walsall. The Section 60 powers allow officers to stop and search anyone within a certain area with no reasonable grounds.
The powers were put into place last night (Tuesday, January 7) and will continue until 10am this morning (Wednesday, January 8). A spokesperson for West Midlands Police added that more officers will be on the streets in the coming days to offer reassurance to residents.
A map shows that the powers are in place in Willenhall, Shortheath, Bloxwich and Coldmore. 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.”
POLL: Would you feel safe travelling in a driverless shuttle?
A spokesperson for the force added last night: “We will be using Section 60 powers across Walsall this evening and overnight due to a fear of potential violent disorder. Section 60 powers allow us to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds.
“The powers will be in place tonight until 10am tomorrow (Wed) and will cover the area of Walsall highlighted on the map. As always, our main focus is on keeping everyone safe.
“We will have extra officers on the streets tonight and over the coming days to offer reassurance.”