Update after Section 60 executed in Scunthorpe

Six arrests have been made after officers authorised their Section 60 powers under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 in the Crosby and Park Ward, and Town Ward areas of Scunthorpe last night (Wednesday, 7 January 2026), 

Detective Superintendent Doug Blackwood said: “The Section 60 which was put in place from 3pm yesterday to 7am this morning (Thursday, 8 January 2026) allowed officers to stop and search people and vehicles in a specific area without suspicion for items such as weapons in specific locations and for a designated period of time. 

“As a result of this, a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and has since been released on conditional bail pending further enquiries. Another 16-year-old boy was also arrested on suspicion of arson and remains in police custody assisting with our enquiries.

“Three 20-year-olds, and a 38-year-old were also arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs. One of the 20-year-olds has since been released under investigation.

“This proactive and preventative activity was in response to a number of reports and concerns around serious violence between people known to each other in the area.

“Whilst I understand this may cause concern amongst local residents and businesses; we would like to reassure the local community that whilst the Section 60 has now been lifted, members of the public can expect to see a continued increase in police officers in the respective ward areas.  

“We would continue to urge anyone with any concerns or information about violent crime in their area to speak to officers in the area, or by calling our non-emergency number 101. 

“Always call 999 in an emergency or if a crime is ongoing.”

You can also report via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.