Police have introduced stop and search powers in Fallowfield following recent 'knife crime related incidents', including the fatal stabbing of a student in the early hours of Wednesday morning (October 26).
The Section 60 powers, around the Fallowfield area, are to be introduced by police from 7pm on Thursday, and will remain in place for 24 hours, giving officers the power to stop and search people in the area.
Shockwaves were sent through the local community after 19-year-old Manchester Metropolitan student Luke O'Connor died after he was stabbed on Wilmslow Road in the early hours of Wednesday, with a murder investigation now underway.
And the following day, Thursday (October 27) police raced to nearby Derby Road, also in Fallowfield, where a man was rushed to hospital following a suspected stabbing . Officers were called to a 'disturbance' at a property and found a knife, and later arrested four males were arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault
Police said the new stop and search powers were introduced in the area 'to keep the public safe'. The area includes Wilmslow Road, which runs through the centre of Fallowfield, and the university campus. An increase in officers patrolling the streets over the coming days is also expected.
Superintendent Helen Critchley, of GMPs City of Manchester division, said: “We understand the use of a Section 60 can cause concern, however, we use these powers only when proportionate and necessary which I believe is the case today. Our main priority is to keep the public safe and the local community will see an increased amount of officers patrolling the area over the next few days.
“Please be reassured that we are doing all we can to keep you safe and a Section 60 is just one of our available options that we utilise to achieve this. If you have any concerns or questions our officers will be happy to speak to you."
If you have any information about weapons or suspicious activity can contact police via Live Chat on their website gmp.police.uk or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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