Police in High Wycombe have been granted additional powers to stop and search individuals following a serious incident in which two men were stabbed and another was struck by a vehicle. The events unfolded in the Castlefield area of the town on the evening of Saturday, March 1st. Officers were called to the scene at approximately 5:20 PM to respond to the violent disorder.
In response to the incident, Thames Valley Police have enacted a Section 60 order, which grants officers the authority to stop and search anyone within a designated area. The order, which is in place until the end of the day, allows law enforcement to take proactive measures to prevent any further escalation of violence. Depending on the situation and the progression of the investigation, the order may be extended beyond the initial 24-hour period.
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A significant police presence will be maintained in the Castlefield area throughout the night and into the following day as investigations continue. Officers will be patrolling the streets to provide reassurance to the local community and to deter any further acts of violence.
According to reports, the three victims of the attacks sustained injuries that were classified as non-life-threatening. While one arrest has already been made in connection with the incident, police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
In a statement shared on social media, Thames Valley Police addressed the public’s concerns and provided further details regarding the Section 60 order. They emphasized that the temporary increase in search powers was necessary to ensure the safety of the community and to prevent further violent incidents. The threshold for enacting such powers is high, and they are only used in exceptional circumstances where the risk of serious harm is evident.
The police statement reassured residents that being stopped and searched under this order does not imply that an individual is in trouble or under suspicion. Officers will be available throughout the designated area to answer any concerns from the public, and those with any information related to the incident are strongly encouraged to come forward. The public can contact the police by calling 101 or by submitting a report via the Thames Valley Police website, quoting reference number 1647 of March 1st.
Section 60 orders are emergency measures implemented under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994. They allow police to conduct searches without the usual requirement of reasonable suspicion. Such orders are commonly used in response to serious violence or when there is intelligence suggesting that further incidents may occur. While controversial in some cases due to concerns about civil liberties, they are considered an essential tool in addressing violent crime and protecting public safety.
The decision to enact the Section 60 order in High Wycombe follows a series of violent incidents that have caused concern among residents. The authorities have not yet confirmed whether the stabbings and the car-related attack were linked, but they are treating the situation with the utmost seriousness. Increased patrols and visible policing efforts aim to reassure the community and deter any potential retaliation or further disturbances.
Local leaders and community representatives have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement. They have also encouraged individuals to report any suspicious activity or share any relevant details that may assist in the police investigation.
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the increased police powers. While some appreciate the proactive approach taken by law enforcement, others have raised concerns about the potential for over-policing and the impact on community relations. Thames Valley Police have assured the public that all searches will be conducted professionally and respectfully, with the sole aim of maintaining public safety.
As the investigation progresses, further updates are expected regarding the nature of the incident, the identities of those involved, and any additional arrests or charges that may follow. For now, the authorities remain focused on ensuring that High Wycombe remains safe and that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.
