Police have issued a warning that individuals who refuse to remove face coverings when asked on County Road today may face arrest. A Section 60 order has been put in place in Walton ahead of planned protests to prevent potential criminal activity and disorder.
Section 60 Order Details
The order is effective from 9am on Saturday, June 13, and will remain in force until midnight on Sunday, June 14. It grants officers additional powers to search individuals suspected of involvement in criminality or disorder.
According to police, the order includes a Section 60AA authorisation, meaning that failure to remove a face covering when requested by an officer who believes it is being used to conceal identity could result in arrest. Any face covering may also be seized by police.
Areas Covered
The Section 60 order applies to the following areas: Queens Drive, Walton Lane, Everton Valley, Kirkdale Road, Stanley Road, Melrose Road, Brewster Street, and Breeze Hill. This includes all roads, transport hubs, public spaces, and premises within these boundaries.
Police Statement
Superintendent Phil Mullally stated: “This order is not designed to disrupt people going about their lawful business in the area. It will instead be used to help keep everyone safe from those involved in criminality, and ensure that people who live, work and visit the area can carry on with as little disruption as possible.
“I hope that the increased presence of our officers in Walton today is reassuring, and I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to those officers. Our officers will be there to maintain public order, prevent and detect crime, protect life and property, and ensure the safety of all those attending and the wider public. Where individuals commit criminal offences, we will take appropriate and proportionate action.”
