POLICE have put in place stop and search powers across much of west Reading following a robbery at knifepoint in Tilehurst yesterday. It will lead to an increased presence by officers across today.
The incident took place in Dulman Close in Tilehurst around 7.30pm yesterday (Sunday, December 5).
Thames Valley Police said that a ‘bladed article’ was used to threaten a teenager, who was approached by three men.
The 18-year-old was not injured and currently no arrests have yet been made.
As a result, the police have enacted a Section 60 order in the area. This will give them authority to carry out stop and search powers while they investigate this incident.
The Section 60 order will be in place for 24 hours until 8.10pm today and will cover an area police are referring to as Tilehurst, although it includes Oxford Road, parts of Caversham and Calcot.
The Northern point being the River Thames, the Eastern point being the A4155, IDR, the Southern point being the A4 junction with Old Bath Road and Langley Hill and the Western point being Langley Hill, Park Lane and Kentwood Hill.
Inspector Craig Burchall, said: “We’re appealing for witnesses following this concerning incident.
“Details are limited at the moment, and we are investigating to establish the exact circumstances, but if you have any information which you think could be relevant to our investigation, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43210549874.
“We would specifically ask for people with private CCTV footage or dash-cam from the area at the time to come forward, as you could have vital information.”
He continued: “As a result of this incident, we have also enacted a Section 60 order, which will give us vital extra powers while we investigate, especially in relation to our stop and search powers.
“I understand that this incident as well as the Section 60 order may cause some concern in the community. However, I would like to reassure people that we are carrying out a full investigation, and that the Section 60 order is an important part of this.
“It is designed to help our investigation, as well as prevent further violence from occurring. It is in place for 24 hours but may be extended further if necessary.
“Members of the public might see an increased police presence in the area during this time. This is all part of our work to investigate this incident and to keep you safe.”
There is more information on stop and search, and particularly Section 60 orders, on Thames Valley Police’s website at: https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/st-s/stop-and-search/why-we-use-stop-and-search/
