Police ramp up stop and search powers in Bolton after knife seized and five teens arrested

Police have stepped up stop and search powers in part of Bolton tonight following an 'incident of violent disorder'.

Officers said five teens were arrested and a knife was seized in the 'isolated incident' on Wednesday night (March 27). As a result, they have authorised a Section 60 order, granting temporary additional powers allow officers to stop and search anyone in a specific area.

The order, covering part of the Harper Green and Smithills areas of Bolton, has been put in place 'to prevent further acts of violence,' and will extend until 02:28am tomorrow on Friday (March 29).

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The force have released maps showing the area covered by the order. One area surrounds Smithills running along Moss Bank Way. A second is in place covering Harper Green along Harrowby Street, Marsh Lane, Lavender Road, Campbell Street, Lorne Street, and Egerton Street.

Police Sergeant James Astbury of GMP’s Bolton District said: “The additional powers granted this afternoon demonstrate our robust approach to incidents of this nature.

“Although this is thought to be an isolated incident between groups known to one another, we understand the impact incidents like these can have on communities.

“ There will be an increase in police presence in the area and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with officers on patrol, and we would ask anyone who has any information on yesterday’s altercation, including knowing the identities of those involved, to contact GMP on 101, or in the case of an emergency 999, quoting log 1806 of 28/04/2024.

“Any piece of information could assist officers as they progress the investigation.”