Extra police powers as risk of violent disorder in Totton

Additional stop and search powers have today been authorised in Totton.

The force said the additional patrols officers will carry out follows information received, which indicated the potential for violent disorder.

The powers will be in place for eight hours until midnight across a large area of the parish, which extends to Testwood School and Rushington.

The area of Totton police will be patrolling tonight (Image: Hampshire Constabulary) Detective Chief Inspector, Alex Spratt, said: "While I know the local community will be understandably concerned to learn of possible disorder here, I want to reassure you all that we are acting swiftly to ensure that we tackle any disruption and deal with those responsible.

“A big part of our response is what we have now implemented, and we will have lots of officers in the area in question to ensure the safety of our entire community.

"I would also like to stress that the people believed to be involved are known to each other, and we do not believe there to be a wider threat to the public.”

Section 60 powers allow officers to stop and search anyone in an area where there has either been serious violence, or that it is believed serious violence may occur imminently.

If you have any concerns or questions, then please do approach officers in the area, who will be happy to speak with you and discuss any issues.

Alternatively, contact 101, or 999 in an emergency.