Stop and search powers used in Mexborough 'to deter violent crimes'

South Yorkshire Police deployed the Section 60 powers under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 on Good Friday (19).

The force said the action was due to “recent incidents of threats of violence in the area including those involving weapons” and the powers were designed to keep communities safe.

Chief Supt Shaun Morley said: “This authority gives our officers the power to stop and search people who they think are carrying offensive weapons.

“Officers do not have to have reasonable suspicion about the individual being stopped and searched. Instead, the authority is intended to deter people from carrying offensive weapons and keep everyone safe by preventing violence.”