Officers have been granted increased stop and search powers in Bolton. The authorisation was given today to prevent violence and to keep people in the borough safe.
Police say the implemented powers come following intelligence received from the community and on social media. Under Section 60 orders, officers are able to stop search anyone in a defined area at any specific time.
Anyone found carrying dangerous or offensive weapons can be prosecuted by police. The powers will be in place throughout the weekend and could be further extended.
Chief Inspector Martin Ashurst, of GMP's Bolton district, said: "We've made the decision to authorise Section 60 powers to prevent violence and keep people safe. Alongside increased stop searches, we have deployed extra uniformed and non-uniformed officers.
"I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to parents/carers to talk to young people about their plans for the weekend to ensure they are both safe and legal. GMP will not tolerate violent crime - preventing and reducing it is one of our highest priorities."
A similar stop and search authorisation was implemented in Wigan last month. The increased powers lasted for 15 hours and were introduced following an incident where two men were shot and injured.
In February, GMP Chief Constable Stephen Watson vowed that police stop and search powers would be used far more in the future. The latest figures available show that GMP has used the powers far less frequently than other forces.
Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. Information about crime can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
