Merseyside Police have implemented a Section 60 Order in Kirkby following the unexplained death of a man in his 30s on Saturday, June 27. The order, which is in effect until 4:59 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, grants officers expanded powers to search pedestrians and vehicles for weapons in the vicinity of Kersey Road and Broad Lane.
What happened in Kirkby?
The investigation began after the North West Ambulance Service reported that a man in his 30s had been found dead in the street at approximately 12:50 p.m. Merseyside Police have established a cordon on Kersey Road and parts of Broad Lane, with emergency services focusing their attention outside a row of terraced houses at the corner of the two roads.
According to reports from the Liverpool ECHO, an eyewitness claimed a friend found the man with “facial injuries” and noted that he was not wearing shoes. Another witness living near the cordon reported seeing a man lying on the floor.
What are the new police powers in the area?
The Section 60 Order authorizes officers to stop any pedestrian, regardless of ethnicity, between the ages of 16 and 45 to search them or their belongings for offensive weapons or dangerous instruments. Officers are also permitted to stop vehicles to search the driver, passengers, and the vehicle itself for similar items.
If a constable discovers a suspected offensive weapon during a search, they are authorized to seize it. The designated area for these powers is bounded by the M57 and extends to the Maghull area and the industrial estate, though it does not include the Field Lane side of the M57.
“This order is not designed to disrupt those who live on Kersey Road or people in Kirkby or who are behaving in a lawful manner. It will instead be used to help keep everyone safe from those involved in criminality, and ensure that people who live in the area are protected from any disruption.”
Chief Inspector Christopher Bland stated that the increased officer presence is intended to maintain public order and protect life and property. He added that police will take “appropriate and proportionate action” where individuals are found carrying dangerous weapons.
What happens next in the investigation?
The death is currently being treated as “unexplained” by Merseyside Police as enquiries continue to establish the full circumstances. Forensic teams have been working inside the cordon, and detectives have begun making CCTV and witness enquiries.
As the investigation progresses, authorities may continue to gather evidence to clarify the events of Saturday afternoon. The police have requested that anyone with information contact them via their social media desks on X or Facebook (@MerPolCC), by calling 101 (quoting log 513 of June 27), or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current status of the death investigation?
The death of the man in his 30s is being treated as “unexplained” while Merseyside Police conduct ongoing enquiries. - Who is subject to the Section 60 search powers?
The order allows for the search of pedestrians aged 16 to 45 and the search of vehicles, including drivers and passengers, for weapons. - How can the public report information about the incident?
Information can be reported to Merseyside Police via social media, by calling 101 (quoting log 513), or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Will the ongoing investigation provide the community with more clarity regarding the circumstances of this death?
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