POLICE have obtained an order allowing them to stop and search anybody in parts of Oxford after knife attacks left two men in hospital.

Thames Valley Police implemented the Section 60 in response to two separate incidents that took place just after 4pm on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

Both incidents involved two men, one aged in his 20s and the other in his 30s, being assaulted by a group of offenders armed with knives.

Both victims attended hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries, and have since been discharged.

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Officers have arrested one man who is currently in police custody.

However, currently the two incidents are not being treated as linked. 

The Section 60 order began at 11.50pm on yesterday and will last 24 hours, where it will be reviewed and extended if necessary.

It covers the area of Barton Village, within the area bordered by Bayswater Brook, Waynflete Road, the A40, and Hengrove Close/Barton Village Road.

Oxford Mail:

People in the area will seen an increased number of officers on the streets while the order is in place.

Inspector James Pither, of St Aldates police station, said: "I would encourage the public to feel reassured rather than alarmed that this order has been put in place, as it is designed to prevent further violence from happening.

"The decision to implement Section 60 orders is never one taken lightly.

"This order will be in place for 24 hours but can be extended if required.

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"These incidents of violence are wholly unacceptable and we will use these powers in order to make our streets safer for everyone.

"Section 60 orders enhance the stop and search powers of officers, allowing them to search people without needing to suspect that they may be carrying weapons.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who may have information regarding the two incidents that took place on Tuesday and Wednesday.

"If you witnessed either, please make a report either online, or by calling 101.

 “Alternatively you can also report 100 per cent anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online."