Stop and search powers have been heightened following a wave of violence yesterday in which two men were stabbed in separate incidents.

A section 60 order is in place until 6pm today (Monday, March 3), meaning police officers have the power to stop and search people across Waltham Forest without having to establish “reasonable grounds”.

At about 5pm yesterday (Sunday, March 1), a 20-year-old man was stabbed in Longfield Avenue, Walthamstow.

He was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Detectives have launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses to call 101 (reference: 5241/01mar) – no arrests have been made.

Almost 6 hours later, another man was stabbed in Queen’s Road, Walthamstow, just 1-mile away from the first stabbing.

Police were called at about 10.40pm to the incident. The victim, aged in his 20s, was also sprayed with an unconfirmed substance. He was taken to hospital.

A Waltham Forest MPS spokesperson said: “We await assessment of condition. No arrest. Witnesses or anyone with info please call 101 (ref CAD 7654/mar01)”.

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