Men 'fighting with knives' sees police stop and search powers stepped up

Police stop and search powers have been stepped up after reports tonight of men 'fighting with knives' in and around a street in Leigh, Wigan, GMP has revealed.

The force said officers were called to reports of a disturbance on Glebe Street at around 6.40pm today - Saturday. A 26-year-old man was subsequently arrested and currently remains in custody for questioning. A force spokesperson said no injuries have been reported.

GMP said: "Greater Manchester Police has this evening, Saturday, March 30, authorised a Section 60 authority in a defined area of Leigh.

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"The Section 60 powers under the 1994 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act will run from 7.45pm on Saturday to 10am on Sunday 31 March 2024.

"The Section 60 authority grants officers extended powers to stop and search individuals within the area. Extensive investigation work is currently ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the reports and highly visible patrols will continue in order to provide reassurance within the community."

Detective Superintendent Gareth Jenkins said:" Our priority is always to keep our communities safe and we believe that authorising this Section 60 is proportionate and necessary following the reports made to us earlier this evening.

"Extra patrol officers have been deployed around the local area both on foot and in patrol cars. If you have any concerns, our officers will be happy to provide reassurance and listen to any of your queries.

"Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact GMP on 101, quoting log number 2649 of 30/03/2024. Information can also be reported online or by using the