Authorised Stop and Search Without Suspicion

Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, s.60

Warrant: No
Force: Yes
Notice: No

An inspector or more senior officer may authorise constables to stop and search persons and vehicles in a defined area for offensive weapons or dangerous instruments without individual reasonable suspicion. The authorisation is time-limited and area-specific and is used when violence is anticipated.

Conditions

Inspector or above must have reasonable grounds to believe serious violence may occur in a locality
Or that a person is carrying a dangerous instrument or offensive weapon without lawful authority
The authorisation must specify the locality and be valid for no more than 24 hours (extendable up to 48 hours)

Limitations

Power to stop and search persons and vehicles only: does not authorise entry to premises
Officers must wear a number or name badge when exercising the power
Must record every search and give the person a written record if they request it

Last updated 24 September 2026