Man arrested after two teenagers stabbed in Southampton
Police given emergency powers to stop and search anyone in the Thornhill area
Police in Southampton have been given emergency powers after two teenagers were stabbed in the city.
It happened on Warburton Road in Thornhill just after 3pm on Wednesday 10th February.
One of the teenagers suffered minor injuries, while the other was stabbed in the hand.
A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of affray and assaulting an emergency worker.
Officers will be able to stop and search anyone in the area until 16:45pm on Thursday 11th February, after a Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 was authorised.
The main concern and reason for the Section 60 is that there is a worry regarding further violence, officers will be patrolling to provide reassurance.
Hampshire Police have released this statement:
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 patrolling the Thornhill area will be looking to apprehend those looking to cause serious violence and carrying offensive weapons or bladed articles
The threshold to implement a Section 60 power is very high and we have it as a tactic to keep communities safe.
The power can be reviewed and extended if appropriate.
Acting Inspector Chris Pell, said:
“Section 60 is an emergency 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 this evening and this is our response.
“We know 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 telling you 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."