Police are introducing stricter powers in a Merseyside town this weekend after an 18-year-old was reportedly stabbed with a machete.
From 5pm on Friday, September 30, a dispersal zone will be in place in Birkenhead for 48 hours after police received reports of anti-social behaviour and criminality having a "significant impact" on local businesses and shoppers visiting the town. Until 5pm Sunday evening, police will be providing a more visible presence in the area and will have increased policing powers within its boundaries.
Under the dispersal zone order, Merseyside Police officers will be given the power to approach "people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes." Police also urged "parents and guardians" to ensure they know the location of their children or other young people in their care, to "further assist" police in dealing with trouble makers.
