Five males aged between 17 and 25 have been arrested following an implementation of stop-and-search measures in Huddersfield last week.
The males were charged with different offences, including the possession of a bladed weapon, and are now in custody.
The increased police presence comes after a worrying surge in assaults in and around the Huddersfield area with police seeking to crack down on recent attacks.
Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Graham Dyson of Kirklees District Police said:
“Making proactive use of increased stop and search powers under Section 60 gives officers an increased ability to target those involved in carrying weapons so we can prevent any further offences.
“We are determined to keep doing everything we can to disrupt, deter and bring to justice those who involve themselves in this type of criminal behaviour, and I hope people will continue to be supportive of the approach we are taking.”
“Officers will remain in the area on patrol and are on hand to speak to anyone with concerns.”
The areas affected by the stricter procedures include the Town Centre, Ashbrow and Fartown. Police in these parts will have increased powers to search people without any justification other than because they see fit.
With the new and temporary restrictions, the aim is to reduce the risk of potential crime within community areas and allow local residents to feel safe at home.
One resident stated:
“I wouldn’t feel safe at all walking through any part of Huddersfield right now – day or night. Trying to stop potential crime before it takes place makes sense”
Another added:
“Huddersfield has a big problem at the minute. These younger lads are just going the wrong way about it and causing too much trouble, especially walking around with weapons and stuff that they shouldn’t have. It’s just not on.”
