Teens clashed with weapons in a Black Country town, sparking special stop-and-search powers this evening. Violent disorder erupted on Drayton Street, in the Alumwell area, near Pleck, Walsall, at around 9pm last night, January 11.
Three teenage boys, one aged 17 and two 16-year-olds, were quickly arrested and taken into custody. They were detained on suspicion of wounding with intent and remain in custody today for questioning, while enquiries continue.
West Midlands Police said an arson attack also took place at a home on Pargeter Street, in the Birchills area, at around 8.50pm on Friday, January 10. No-one was injured and an investigation is ongoing.
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The violence has sparked Section 60 powers to be implemented for two areas of the borough from this afternoon (January 12) until 3pm tomorrow (January 13). The powers are in place in the wards of Pleck and Birchills Leamore.
Officers can stop and search anyone without the need to have reasonable grounds, under these powers. West Midlands Police said it has issued the Section 60 powers “due to concerns over potential violent disorder”. The force said it will have extra officers on the streets tonight and over the coming says to offer reassurance.
The areas where police have implemented a stop-and-search zone
(Image: WMP)
Chief Inspector Lee Wiggan, of Walsall Police, said: “We don’t use section 60 powers lightly, but we will use all our powers to ensure the safety of people in the area. We will have increased patrols in the area and uniformed officers.
“These powers allow us to stop and search people we may suspect may be involved in violence, or carrying weapons, without the need to have reasonable grounds. Our aim is to keep everyone safe.”