West Midlands Police Extend Special Stop and Search Powers Following Violent Incidents

In response to recent violent incidents and criminal activities, police forces in various UK regions have been granted or extended Section 60 stop and search powers, allowing officers to stop and search individuals without reasonable grounds. In Birmingham, these powers were activated in Washwood Heath and Ward End following gunshots fired at a car and a ram raid involving a vehicle, with police maintaining an increased presence to reassure the community. Similarly, Greater Manchester Police imposed a Section 60 order in the Limeside area of Oldham after reports of antisocial behaviour and criminal damage, accompanied by increased officer deployment. West Midlands Police also extended stop and search powers in Wolverhampton after two men were fatally shot, with an ongoing manhunt for a suspect linked to the area. These measures reflect a proactive approach by law enforcement to tackle organised crime, gun violence, and public safety concerns across multiple locales.