Community Information: Section 60AA Authority in Clapham and Vauxhall

Community Information: Section 60AA Authority in Clapham and Vauxhall

I have authorised the use of Section 60AA Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 powers in parts of Clapham and Vauxhall during identified peak offending periods in the night-time economy.

These are:

Clapham High Street Night-Time Economy Area

Vauxhall Night-Time Economy Area and surrounding area

This decision follows consideration of local crime data, information from police officers, community concerns and reports from businesses and other stakeholders. Information indicates that some individuals are using face coverings, including balaclavas and masks, to conceal their identities whilst committing offences such as robbery and theft and to avoid identification through CCTV and witness accounts.

We have also received reports that groups wearing face coverings in these areas have contributed to feelings of intimidation, particularly amongst women using the night-time economy, and have negatively impacted perceptions of safety within the community.

What does this authority mean?

The Section 60AA authority allows police officers in uniform to require a person to remove a face covering where the officer believes it is being worn wholly or mainly to conceal their identity.

The purpose of the power is to help prevent crime, identify offenders and reassure the public.

What this authority does NOT mean

It is important to emphasise that this authority is not a Section 60 stop and search authorisation.

There are no additional stop and search powers in force as a result of this authority.

Section 60AA is a completely separate power and does not provide officers with authority to conduct searches of people or vehicles.

Officers must continue to rely on their normal powers and existing legal grounds when carrying out any stop and search. This authorisation only relates to the removal of face coverings where they are believed to be worn to conceal identity.

Respecting legitimate reasons for face coverings

We recognise that many people wear face coverings for entirely legitimate reasons, including religious observance, medical reasons, personal health considerations or employment requirements.

This authority is not directed at those individuals and will not provide authority for face coverings in these circumstances to be removed

Officers have been briefed that any use of Section 60AA powers must be lawful, proportionate and intelligence-led, and that face coverings worn for legitimate purposes should be treated appropriately and respectfully.

Why are we using this power?

The authority has been introduced to:

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.

If you have concerns about crime or anti-social behaviour in your area, please speak to local officers or report information through the usual policing channels.