Boy ‘stabbed’ in knife attack sparking increased police powers for 24 hours
The initial incident occurred at around 4.4pm today (Sunday, April 6) when a 17-year-old boy was assaulted in Blackbird Leys.
An altercation occurred near the Leys Pool and Leisure Centre in Pegasus Road, and the victim was assaulted, say Thames Valley Police.
The boy has been taken to the hospital with facial and hand injuries consistent with knife wounds, but his injuries are not life-threatening.
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Police have since enacted a Section 60 order under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act for the area, with officers conducting stop and search protocols.
Inspector Neil Applegarth, based at Cowley Police Station, said: “I am aware that we’ve had three similar incidents over the last seven to ten days, and I know that incidents such as this cause concern in our community.
“We have enacted a Section 60 stop and search order covering the entirety of Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys for a period of 24 hours.
“This order commenced at 7.25pm this evening.
“Under the order, officers will temporarily have greater powers to stop and search any individual in the area that the order is in place.
“This may be extended should it be deemed necessary.
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“We will not tolerate such violence in our community. I would like to reassure the public that we have a number of officers investigating this incident and there will be an increased presence of officers in the area.
“While the order is in place, we expect to carry out more stop and searches than usual. If you are stopped by an officer, please do not be worried, as this does not mean that you are in trouble.
“If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak to any of our officers, who will be happy to address these with you.
“Anybody who witnessed the incident today is urged to contact Thames Valley Police either online via our website or by calling 101, quoting incident reference 1366 of April, 6.
“Alternatively, for 100 per cent anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
