Police Given Extra Powers in Merseyside, Gloucestershire, Kent Amid Rising Disorder

Police forces in various UK towns have been granted extra powers to address increasing antisocial behavior, criminal damage, and dangerous activities. In Kirkby, Merseyside, officers can arrest individuals who return after being told to leave a designated area and seize items suspected of being used for antisocial behavior until Sunday night. Similarly, Gloucestershire Police introduced a dispersal zone in Cirencester town centre, allowing them to direct disorderly individuals to leave and arrest those who return during the order. Kent Police have enforced a 48-hour dispersal order on the Isle of Sheppey, giving them the authority to instruct people to leave certain areas, seize vehicles driven dangerously, and arrest repeat offenders. Additionally, Merseyside Police responded to gunshots in Toxteth by deploying armed officers and implementing a Section 60 order to enhance stop and search powers, aiming to reduce violence and reassure residents. These measures reflect a coordinated effort by police to curb rising public safety concerns and antisocial behavior in their communities.