Tough new stop and search powers have been put in place temporarily in parts of Chapeltown after a man was stabbed to death on Thursday.
Temporary powers have been put in place following the fatal stabbing of a man in Hamilton Avenue, Hamilton Place this afternoon ( Thursday, March 2). Police were called by the ambulance service at 2.39pm to a report a man had been located there with serious stab injuries.
The man was taken to hospital but sadly died there from his injuries. A full investigation into the murder has been launched by West Yorkshire Police and remains ongoing this evening by the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team.
Read more: Man stabbed to death in Chapeltown, Leeds - updates
Alongside continuing enquiries, senior officers authorised the use of Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 to come into effect from 4pm hours today allow police to stop and search people for weapons without needing the usual grounds to conduct a search.
The order (as shown on the map pictured) covers an area bordered by Scott Hall Road, the A61, Regent Street, Skinner lane, Beckett Street , Harehills Road, Roundhay Road, Gledhow Valley Road, Harrogate Road and King Lane. The Section 60 is in place for an initial 24 hours and its continuation will be subject to regular reviews.
It gives police officers the power to search people or vehicles for offensive weapons or dangerous instruments without them having to have their usual grounds to suspect each person searched.
Chief Inspector Peter Hall of Leeds District Police, said: “Enquiries into the murder in Chapeltown are ongoing this evening and we fully realise the concern this incident will cause locally.
“This order has been put in place due to concerns about the potential for further incidents in this area.
“These additional search powers give officers an increased ability to stop those involved in carrying weapons, as part of our efforts to disrupt deter and bring to justice those who involve themselves in this type of criminal behaviour.
“They are now in place for an initial 24 hours and will be subject to regular review."
Anyone who can assist police enquiries is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team on 101 referencing police log 909 of March 2. Information can also be given online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat or anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
Follow updates on this developing incident in our live blog here.
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