Police get extra powers after outbreak of violence

Police have been given enhanced powers to stop and search people after an outbreak of violence in Cheltenham.

Four men have been arrested after reports of a shooting in the town last Wednesday.

Gloucestershire Police believe there is an ongoing feud involving two groups in the town.

On Sunday officers were authorised under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to carry out searches to prevent further violence.

The order, which covers St Paul's, The Moors, Hester's Way, St Marks and Pittville areas of Cheltenham, has since been extended until Tuesday afternoon.

The force said there have been multiple incidents over the past week, predominantly been in the areas of St Paul's and Hester's Way.

They have included criminal damage, reports of people seen with knives, fights taking place and threats of violence being made against people and property.

No injuries have been reported to police at this time, officers said.

In several incidents those involved were using electric bikes and scooters, some of them wearing face coverings.

There was also an incident on Shannon Way near Ashchurch in Tewkesbury on Saturday, which officers believe is related.

Arrests were made after two vehicles rammed another vehicle in a car park and people then fled the scene.

Supt Emma MacDonald from Gloucestershire Police said: "We appreciate that this series of incidents is unsettling for members of the local community and there will be increased police activity in the area.

"This violent criminality is unacceptable and it will not be tolerated.

"We have already made several arrests with investigations ongoing, and we will take robust action against those involved.

"We would encourage anyone who has footage of the incidents, including of the vehicles being used, to please contact us."

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