Patrols stepped up and 23 stop searches carried out during Section 60 Order in New Ferry/Rock Ferry

A total of 23 stop searches have been carried out and community resolutions issued to individuals after a Section 60 Order was enforced in the New Ferry and Rock Ferry area.

The order came into force on 2pm on Wednesday 27 March for a 24-hour period and during this time extra officers were deployed in the area to provide a visible presence to prevent crime or serious violence.

It follows a reported shooting on Tuesday 26 March on New Chester Road, which we continue to investigate, and so far there have been no reported injuries or damage caused as a result of the firearms discharge.

As well as a Section 60 order, officers have been conducting land searches, completed letter drops and provided reassurance around the area.

During the 24-hour period of the order, officers conducted 23 stop checks and issued two community resolution orders to individuals who had been caught with small quantities of cannabis.

Inspector Nicola Hughes said: “During the last 24 hours, we have had increased patrols in the New Ferry and Rock Ferry area to provide reassure to the community and also disrupt those intent on causing criminality.

“This order was brought in after a shooting on Wednesday 27 March and dan investigation is ongoing into this incident.

“I hope this activity demonstrates very clearly that there is simply no hiding place for anyone who brings misery to our communities. Those who are prepared to use guns on our streets, with little or no regard for other members of the community, will be pursued and brought before the courts.

“My message to those involved in gun crime and serious organised crime is clear – Merseyside Police will never rest and we will use everything in our power to reduce these offences.

“Information from the public is vital if we are to continue to break down the organised crime groups who bring misery to our streets and I would appeal to anyone who has information to come forward.

"If you don’t want to contact the police directly, then I would encourage you to use the totally independent and completely anonymous Crimestoppers service.”

You can pass any information by calling 101, via our social media desk @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook with reference number 23001269221.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.