Police have announced there will be an increase in stop searches across Bolton, following intelligence received from the community.
Greater Manchester Police have been authorised to carry out increased stop searches in the Bolton area from this afternoon (April 26) in a bid to prevent violence. Under Section 60, officers can stop search anyone in a defined area at a specific time.
Officers have warned that anyone carrying ‘dangerous instruments or offensive weapons’ will be prosecuted. Chief Inspector Martin Ashurst, of GMP's Bolton district, said: "We've made the decision to authorise Section 60 powers to prevent violence and keep people safe.
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"Alongside increased stop searches, we have deployed extra uniformed and non-uniformed officers. I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to parents/ carers to talk to young people about their plans for this afternoon/evening to ensure they are both safe and legal. GMP will not tolerate violent crime - preventing and reducing it is one of our highest priorities."
Just last month, stop and search powers were authorised in Bolton in response to an incident where two men were shot and injured. Similar powers have also been granted across the city-region, following repeated knife crime incidents.
In one day of action alone across Oldham last month, police officers arrested 54 people thanks to stop and search powers. Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said the authorisation of such powers was part of 'a raising of the game'.
Anyone with information on crime can report an incident with Greater Manchester Police via their website or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. Information about crime can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
