Thames Valley Police put section 60 order in place in Tilehurst

A section 60 order has been put in place in Tilehurst after two incidents of grievous bodily harm occurred in the area yesterday (Thursday).

The 24-hour order gives police officers extra stop and search powers and it will expire at 12.10am tomorrow (Saturday).

The Section 60 order covers the area shown on the map below: Oxford Road, Long Lane, Sulham Hill, Little Heath Road, City Road, Park Lane, Mayfair, Meadway, Water Road and Grovelands Road.

Inspector Elliot Male said: “This order has been put in place following two serious assaults that have taken place in a short space of time in the Reading area where the victims were left with injuries.

“This order is in place to ensure public safety, while also giving police extra power to search people who they think could be involved in violence, and to take weapons off the street.”

At about 6.10pm yesterday, the victim, a man in his teens, was hit by a van on Pierces Hill, Tilehurst, and shortly before this an incident of grievous bodily harm occurred in Southcote as well.

These two linked incidents led police to put the section 60 order in place.

Inspector Male also said: “I understand that an order of this nature could cause concern, but whilst a Section 60 order may sound alarming, enhancing our stop and search powers provides us with another tactic to quickly identify and disrupt those carrying weapons.

“If you are stopped by an officer, please do not be worried as this does not mean that you are in trouble. You will see more police officers in the area whilst the order is in place and we expect to carry out more stop and searches than usual.

“Officers who are out and about are there to reassure you as well as using their powers under Section 60 so please do stop and speak with them about any concerns that you have.”

“We are appealing to anyone who has any information about either of these incidents to contact police, either online or by calling 101 quoting reference number 43220347031.

“If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can provide information to the independent charity Crimestoppers online or on 0800 555 111.”