POLICE are enforcing stop and search powers in Tilehurst after a double stabbing on Saturday evening.
Under a Section 60 order, Thames Valley Police are looking for items relating to the incident in Lucey Close, Tilehurst.
The Section 60 order applies to the areas shown on the map pictured, which includes the Tilehurst area, including areas from A4 Bath Road, A329 Oxford Road, and West Reading train station.
It also applies to areas such as Coley and Whitley, including areas from A4 Bath Road, A33, M4, Shinfield Road and the Inner Distribution Road.
It comes after two 16-year-old boys sustained stab wounds at around 11.29pm on Saturday evening.
One of the victims suffered one stab wound to his chest, the second has multiple stab wounds to his chest and shoulder.
Both victims have been taken to hospital with their injuries not believed to be life-threatening at this time.
Superintendent Stan Gilmour, head of the Thames Valley Violence Reduction Unit said: “There will be an increased presence of uniformed police officers in these areas in order to provide reassurance and to prevent a re-occurrence of any such incident.
“Officers have been given authority to use their powers under Section 60 with effect from 7pm on Sunday, and the powers will last for 24 hours.
“The order exists to help the police prevent serious violence, and the police can use these powers where serious violence has taken place or where the police think it may take place. The new order will not be permanent, however it is necessary for the time being.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Hall, based at Newbury police station, said initial investigations identified a man running away from the scene potentially carrying a knife.
Speaking on Sunday morning, he said: “It is believed he was running off in the direction of the Cotswold Play Park with a group of other males.
“All are described as wearing dark clothing and face masks. Additionally upon arrival, a large number of other young people were on the scene.
“We have not identified any suspects at this stage, but are conducting enquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage and have a police presence in the area while we investigate this incident.”
He added: “I am aware of the significant concern that this incident will cause in the local community, but I would like to reassure them that we are investigating this as an utmost priority and our scene-watch will be in place for some time while we try to ascertain exactly what has happened.
“You will notice an increased police presence in the area while our enquiries continue. Clearly the carrying and using of knives is completely unacceptable, and we will robustly pursue those responsible for this incident and seek to bring them to justice.
“I would urge anyone who believes that they witnessed the incident, or have CCTV or camera phone footage of what happened to make contact with police immediately and provide us with this information.
“I would ask anybody that is in possession of any footage to please not share this on social media, but to contact us directly.
“If you believe you know who the offender or offenders are, please also get in touch.
“You can do so by calling 101, quoting reference number 43200286779 or by making a report online.
“If you do not feel you wish to speak directly with the police, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
