Leeds police given more powers in two city areas after machete spotted

Extra police powers brought in across two Leeds inner areas after machete incident

Police have been given extra stop and search powers in parts of Leeds after a man was reportedly seen carrying a machete.

The Section 60 order covers Chapeltown and Harehills and was introduced following an incident on Leopold Street on Monday, September 28. Senior officers have authorised the temporary powers to help prevent serious violence and detect people carrying offensive weapons. The order came into force at 4pm for an initial 24 hours, with its continuation subject to regular reviews.

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "Increased stop and search powers have been put in place temporarily in Chapeltown and Harehills to prevent serious violence and keep communities safe following an incident earlier this afternoon.

"Senior officers at Leeds District have authorised the use of Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 to detect and deter the carrying of offensive weapons in the area and to prevent serious violence. The order covers an area shown in the map below.

"The authorisation came into effect at 4pm for an initial 24 hours and its continuation will be subject to regular reviews. It gives police officers the power to search people or vehicles for offensive weapons or dangerous instruments without them having to have their usual grounds to suspect each person searched.

"It follows an incident earlier today where a man was seen with a machete on Leopold Street. Officers are increasing their patrols and presence in the area to deter any further incidents and reassure the community.

"Maintaining the trust and confidence of the community is vital and we are continuing to liaise with key community representatives, including the district's Independent Advisory Group, to ensure appropriate scrutiny and accountability around the use of this additional power."