Wiltshire Police have slammed the panic button after a brutal stabbing in Redhouse, Swindon. A Section 60 order has been unleashed, giving officers the green light to stop and search anyone within the area — no questions needed.
18-Year-Old Hospitalised After Knife Attack
The drama unfolded around 4.10pm on November 24, when chaos broke out on a footpath off Oakhurst Way near a local park. An 18-year-old man was viciously stabbed during a disorder.
He was rushed to hospital with potentially life-changing injuries. Police are hunting suspects described as dressed head-to-toe in black, wearing balaclavas, and riding electric bikes.
Section 60 and 60AA Orders Activated
At 7.25pm last night, Wiltshire Police authorised Section 60 and 60AA orders for the Redhouse area, handing officers enhanced powers to stop and search anyone suspicious within the designated zone. These powers will last for up to 24 hours and remain under constant review.
The Section 60 order allows police to search people without needing reasonable suspicion. Section 60AA ups the ante by allowing officers to demand removal of face coverings that hide identities.
Supt. James Brain said: “We understand how concerning incidents like this are for the local community and we want to reassure residents that we are fully committed to tackling violent crime and keeping our streets safe.
“These orders were authorised following a serious stabbing in Swindon this afternoon, granting officers temporary additional powers to stop and search individuals in the area. This helps us to prevent further violence and identify those responsible.
“This does not mean people will be stopped indiscriminately; officers will still follow usual stop and search processes.
“Residents in the local area will likely see a heightened police presence while CID investigates the stabbing. We urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam or doorbell footage to come forward.”
How You Can Help Police Catch the Attackers
- If you have any information, call Wiltshire Police on 101 quoting log 241 from 24/11.
- You can also leave anonymous tips with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
- Learn more about Section 60 stop and search powers on the Wiltshire Police Website.
