Police have been given extra powers after a series of incidents on Crosby beach
Families enjoying sunshine on the beach(Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
Merseyside Police have issued a warning to beachgoers in Crosby after ongoing reports of people carrying dangerous weapons in the area. A Section 60 Order was introduced on Crosby beach and Blundellsands at 12.30pm today (Saturday, June 27) and will run for 24 hours until 12.30pm tomorrow (Sunday, June 28).
The order gives police extra powers to search people who are suspected of causing or being involved in crime and disorder.
The order comes after a dispersal zone was issued in the same area at 4pm on Friday (June 26), which is in place until 4pm on Sunday, after reports of youths gathering on the beach to fight, drink alcohol, and inhale nitrous oxide.
The order was made after ongoing reports of anti-social behaviour, drug use, and dangerous driving in the area.
The area covers Crosby Beach, Hall Road West, Merseyrail Railway line, Crosby Road South, Cambridge Road, and Marine Lake.
It also includes a Section 60AA authorisation, meaning anyone who refuses to remove a face covering when asked by an officer who believes it is being used to hide an identity could be arrested. Any face covering can also be seized by a police officer.
Inspector Phillip Cowin said: “This order is not designed to disrupt those who live in the area or who are visiting Crosby beach and acting responsibly.
“It will instead be used to help keep everyone safe, find any weapons in the area and apprehend those involved.
“I hope that the increased presence of our officers in Crosby and Blundellsands 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.”
Anyone with information about antisocial behaviour and criminality should contact Merseyside Police social media desk using X or Facebook @MerPolCC. You can also report information via the force’s website: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101.
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously In an emergency always call 999.