Special stop and search powers for new larger area around Merryoak, Southampton

A new Section 60 order has been authorised for part of Southampton which will allow our officers to stop and search anyone in the area in and around Merryoak from now until 7am, on Monday, November 28. The Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 was authorised this afternoon and runs from now until 7am. It covers a larger area than was put in place last night

This emergency power has been implemented in response to a stabbing in the area. The 18-year-old victim was found at 2.45am by passers-by on, Saturday, November 26, in Manor Road North, Southampton. 

The main concern and reason for the Section 60 is a worry regarding further violence, officers will be patrolling to provide reassurance.

Section 60 can be implemented in areas where either serious violence has occurred or police believe serious violence is about to occur and gives officers the power to stop and search anyone in a designated location, without the restrictions of normal stop and search.

Officers will be looking to apprehend those looking to cause serious violence and carrying offensive weapons or bladed articles.

Officers patrolling the area are able to stop and search anyone while Section 60 is in use.

The threshold to implement a Section 60 power is very high and we have it as a tactic to keep communities safe.

As a result, officers patrolling the area defined in the map will be able to stop and search anyone in the area for 24 hours. The power can be reviewed at that time and extended if appropriate.

We only use Section 60 as an emergency short-term tactic. We do not suggest that it is a long-term solution to violent disorder or weapon related crime, however we have concerns raised by the community and this is currently part of our response.

We are aware that some will think this inhibits our ability to catch those carrying weapons, however it is important communities are informed we are taking action. It is also helps prevent other incidents of serious violence occurring and so helps us prevent crime.

We are making sure you are informed because we follow the national Best Use of Stop and Search guidance to inform communities why you may see an increased police presence and when we have enhanced powers.

Twenty two stop and searches took place in Merryoak after last night's Secton 60 was put in place. It led to an offensive weapon being recovered and some class 'B' drugs. A 17-year-old was arrested in connection with those discoveries. He has since been released under investigation. A 16-year-old was also give a community resolution for possession of cannabis.