They apply at different times across the two areas
Met Police officers in Clapham and Vauxhall have been issued with special powers across parts of this weekend following a spate of robberies. They were issued by Met Police Inspector Darren Watson and they begin on Clapham High Street tonight (Friday, August 21) between 10pm and 4am tomorrow morning (Saturday, August 22).
They also apply to Vauxhall between 2am to 10am tomorrow. The powers allow uniformed cops to remove a face covering if it’s believed the covering is being worn wholly or mainly to hide their identity.
It’s important to note, though, that a Section 60AA is not a Section 60 stop and search power, meaning there are no additional stop and search powers as a result.
Inspector Darren Watson said: “We have authorised an order in Clapham and Vauxhall that allows officers to require the removal of face coverings where there are reasonable grounds to suspect they are being worn to conceal identity.
“This follows information which indicates that some individuals are using face coverings to conceal their identities while committing robberies and thefts and to avoid identification.
“Any use of these powers must be lawful, proportionate and intelligence-led. At the same time, we recognise face coverings may be worn for legitimate purposes, and these cases will be treated appropriately and respectfully.
“We will continue to work closely with local communities, businesses and partners to tackle crime and ensure Clapham and Vauxhall remain safe places to live, work and visit.”
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