Police have introduced stop and search powers in south Manchester following the fatal stabbing of a teenager. A 17-year-old male tragically died on Tuesday (November 22) after being stabbed on Southlea Road in Withington.
A murder investigation has now been launched with specialist stop and search powers to be introduced across parts of Withington and Burnage. The Section 60 powers mean officers can stop search anyone in a defined area within a specific timeframe.
The temporary powers have been brought in as a response to the fatal stabbing and will run from Tuesday evening, to 5pm on Wednesday (November 23). Officers were called to Southlea Road in Withington at around 11.30am on Tuesday, where the 17-year-old was rushed to hospital. His injuries proved to be fatal.
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An increased police presence is also expected in the locality over the coming days to reassure the community as the investigation continues.
Superintendent Helen Critchley, of GMPs City of Manchester division, said: “We understand the use of a Section 60 can cause concern to residents, however, we use these powers only when proportionate and necessary which I believe is the case today.
“Please be reassured that we are doing all we can to keep you safe. We have deployed extra uniformed and non-uniformed officers to the area to support the investigation team and the community, and I want members of the public to know that they can approach officers and talk to them if they have any questions or concerns.
"The force is working with partner agencies to fight, prevent and reduce knife crime so I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who knows or suspects someone is carrying a weapon to report it before it’s too late."
Greater Manchester Police is continuing to appeal for witnesses and information. Forensics remained at the scene throughout the day with the victim's family currently being supported by specialist officers.
Detective Superintendent Neil Jones of GMP South Manchester Division added: "Our thoughts are with the victim's loved ones at this devastating time, and I understand this will cause distress and concern to the community and across Manchester. We are in the early stages of our investigation, but I can assure you that our officers are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident.
“You may notice that there will be an increase in officers out on the streets in the Withington and Burnage area over the coming days to gather intelligence and offer reassurance to the public.
“If anyone has any information about this incident or has any concerns, I encourage you to speak to these officers. They are there to help and support you. This can also be done anonymously via Crimestoppers. I also ask anyone who has dash cam or CCTV footage from this area to contact us on 0161 856 1995.”
Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via gmp.police.uk 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.
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Teenage boy seriously hurt after being 'stabbed' in south Manchester
