Increased stop and search powers have been granted for Burmantofts after a man was seen chasing another with a machete.
West Yorkshire Police believe that the incident, which took place yesterday afternoon (Sunday), involved members of a criminal street gang.
Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 "to detect and deter the carrying of offensive weapons, and to prevent serious violence" has now been put in place for the area following the incident.
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The order, which came into effect at 4pm yesterday, covers Torre Road, East Park Parade, Railway Street and Marsh Lane. It initially was in place for 24 hours but a spokesperson said “ its continuation will be subject to regular reviews.”
It gives 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.
Superintendent Andy Cass, of Leeds District, said: “This order has been put in place due to concerns about the potential for further retaliatory incidents in this area.
“These additional search powers give officers an increased ability to stop those involved in carrying weapons. This is all about disrupting, deterring and bringing to justice those who involve themselves in this type of criminal behaviour.
“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team are also carrying out increased patrols in the area to deter any further incidents and reassure the wider community.”
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