Police Lift Section 60 Order in Crowthorne and Sandhurst After Violence Threat
Section 60 Stop-and-Search Order Ends
The Section 60 order that gave cops extra stop-and-search powers in Crowthorne and Sandhurst has officially been lifted. It was introduced last Friday afternoon after intelligence revealed pre-planned youth brawls and discarded weapons were discovered in the area. The order ran from 2pm on Friday (2nd October) until 2pm today (5th October).
No Weapons Found, Violence Averted
Under the Public Order Act, the order let police stop and search anyone in a set location for weapons or items linked to violence. Superintendent Felicity Parker, Local Policing Area Commander for Bracknell, said:
“During the Section 60 period, a large number of searches were carried out. I’m pleased to report no weapons were found. The order helped prevent serious violence from happening.”
She added that high-visibility patrols deterred people from carrying weapons and that prevention always beats reacting to incidents.
Police Ready to Act Again if Needed
Supt Parker warned anyone thinking of carrying weapons:
“Although the Section 60 is lifted, we can bring it back whenever intelligence demands it. Our officers still have normal stop-and-search powers if they reasonably suspect someone is carrying weapons, drugs, or tools for crime.”
The police will keep a close eye on the situation and maintain a strong presence. If needed, a new Section 60 order could be swiftly reinstated.
Community Thanks and Support
Supt Parker thanked local residents for their patience and support throughout the operation, especially local schools, parents, and youth workers who helped during patrols. She urged locals to contact police with any info via officers or the 24-hour non-emergency number, 101.
“This was a preventative step to keep everyone safe. We will continue to listen to local concerns and act accordingly,” she said.
