Community Update – Section 60 & 60AA search powers authorised for Al-Quds Protest Today

A Section 60 and Section 60AA authority has been put in place today to help keep our community safe.

Authorised by: Cmdr Claire Smart
Start: 15/03/2026 – 1000hrs
End: 15/03/2026 – 2000hrs

What this means

Section 60 – Stop & Search Powers
Officers have enhanced powers to stop and search any person or vehicle within the designated area for offensive weapons or dangerous instruments.
This is a proactive measure used to prevent serious violence and ensure community safety.

Section 60AA – Face Covering Powers
Officers may require individuals to remove face coverings if they reasonably believe they are being worn wholly or mainly to conceal identity.
This does not apply to face coverings worn for medical, religious or legal reasons.

Why it’s in place

This authority has been introduced to allow officers to respond swiftly to potential violence, protect the public, and deter individuals carrying weapons or attempting to conceal their identity for unlawful purposes.

Community Assurance

Local officers will be visible throughout the period of the authority. We are here to reassure, engage, and support our community. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to an officer on patrol.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work to keep our area safe.

Protest areas

The Al-Quds protest will be resisted to the Albert Embankment and is highlighted in red on the second map, where the counter protest will be restricted to Millbank and is highlighted in blue on the third map