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Section 60 Notices: Emergency Stop-and-Search Powers Explained.

Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 allows police to stop and search individuals without reasonable suspicion—but only under strict conditions.


A Section 60 notice empowers police officers to stop and search individuals in a designated area for a limited time, without needing reasonable suspicion. It’s an emergency measure used to prevent serious violence or respond to intelligence about weapons.

To issue a notice, a senior officer must:

- Define the area and duration (typically no more than 15 hours).

- Provide a justification based on credible intelligence.

- Publicise the notice where possible to inform the public.

Use and Controversy: Section 60 searches surged between 2017 and 2018, with London accounting for over 70% of all incidents. The Metropolitan Police cite gang violence prevention as a key driver, but critics argue the powers are used indiscriminately.

- Only 0.32% of Section 60 searches led to an arrest in 2018.

- Civil liberties groups warn of disproportionate targeting and erosion of trust.

- The Home Office has since relaxed restrictions, allowing wider use of Section 60 in response to knife crime and public disorder.

Balancing Safety and Rights: Supporters argue that Section 60 helps prevent violence and saves lives. Opponents say it’s a blunt tool that risks alienating communities. Long-term solutions may lie in community investment, youth services, and targeted policing, rather than relying solely on emergency powers.

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Section 60 Notices: Emergency Stop-and-Search Powers Explained.
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