ADDITIONAL stop and search powers have been granted to officers in part of Laindon following three incidents involving reports of a group of people seen with weapons.

A police statement says: "We received reports about three separate incidents of a group of men or teenagers seen with large knives, baseball bats or shovels yesterday (Thursday, 19 August) in the Somercotes area.

"Because of this, additional stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 has been authorised.

"This is essentially an extension of the stop and search powers officers already have, but differs because it means they do not need to have reasonable grounds to carry out a stop and search.

"Due to this we have an obligation to make the public aware when one is in place, the area it covers, and how long it will be in place for."

Inspector Dan McHugh added: "We will not tolerate people coming here intent on committing crime these extended powers are just one of the tools we have available to protect the public.

"If you are in the area overnight you will see an increased police presence but please do not be alarmed. I want to thank the public in advance for their understanding and co-operation."