Section 60 order extended in Milton Keynes

The section 60 order has been extended for another 24 hours meaning, Police have greater stop and search powers across the entire borough of Milton Keynes, until Friday April 2.

Following a mass altercation involving at least ten people, on the redway near to Furzton Lake, that saw two teenagers sent to hospital with stab wounds. To maintain public safety following this attack, Police temporarily authorised a section 60.

The teenagers' injuries, whilst requiring hospital treatment, are not life-threatening.

Initially, that order was organised for 24 hours starting at 10:47am yesterday (March 31).

The difference between section 60 and the police's normal stop and search process, is that they no longer need reasonable grounds to search an individual.

Inspector Gemma Price, of Milton Keynes Police station, explained the reasoning behind the order in a statement yesterday, saying: “A section 60 order enhances the stop and search powers of officers, allowing them to search anyone without needing to suspect that they might be carrying weapons.

“The order is in place to prevent further violence from taking place, so we would encourage residents to feel reassured by a police presence rather than alarmed.

“Thames Valley Police does not take the decision to implement a Section 60 lightly, and following the conclusion of this order, it can be extended if deemed necessary. We take any incidents of knife related crime extremely seriously and so you can expect to see additional officers in the area. I would strongly encourage the people to speak to officers if they have concerns.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to further appeal for witnesses, or anyone with information about the incident near Furzton Lake.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference 43210134271. You can also report online, or call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Four arrests were made in connection to the altercation on suspicion of Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent. Four teenagers one aged 18, two aged 17 and one aged 15 are currently in custody.