MORE than 70 people were stop searched in one night as police crack down on crime.
The searches were carried out under a Section 60 order in parts of Whiston, Prescot and Huyton that was implemented on Monday.
The order was then introduced for a second night on Tuesday, June 2, running from 5pm to 5am the following morning.
This follows the recent shooting on Pottery Lane, Whiston, on May 24 and other related incidents, some involving males on Sur-ron e-bikes.
It gave officers additional powers to search people who are suspected of involvement in criminality and disorder.
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Inspector Ray Mavrakakis said: "Section 60 Orders are powerful tool giving us extra powers to stop people we think could be engaged in criminality.
"It means we can disrupt those intent on causing misery and harm on our streets, search them for weapons and order them to remove face coverings."
The order also included a Section 60AA authorisation, allowing officers to require the removal of face coverings.
Refusal to comply can result in arrest.
On the first night of the order, more than 70 people were stopped and searched.
Inspector Mavrakakis said: "It certainly isn't about disrupting people going about their lawful business in the area.
"On the contrary, it is there to make sure such people can live, work and visit Knowsley without fear of being exposed to crime.
"I hope that the increased presence of our officers is reassuring, and I continue to ask anyone with concerns to speak to those officers."
The area covered by the second order was slightly different from the previous zone and is bounded by Liverpool Road, the M57, Warrington Road, the M62, Fox’s Bank Lane, Blundells Lane and Stoney Lane.
Anyone with information about criminal activity is encouraged to contact Merseyside Police via their social media channels @MerPolCC, through their website, or by calling 101.
Information can also be shared anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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