Emergency police powers in place after man shot in Walsall

Stop and search powers enforced after a man in his 40’s was taken to hospital with gunshot injuries in Darlaston

Emergency stop and search powers are in place across Walsall after a man was seriously injured in a shooting. Police and paramedics were called to Charles Foster Street, Darlaston, around 9am on Friday, where they found the gravely wounded victim.

He is said to be in a stable condition in hospital. An investigation is underway and anyone who saw the incident or has dashcam footage is urged to contact the force.

In the meantime, West Midlands Police have enacted Section 60 powers, which allows officers to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds. The powers will be in place until 9.30am tomorrow (Saturday) and will cover the whole of Walsall.

Read More: Darlaston police incident live as 'drive-by' shooting leaves man seriously injured

Chief Inspector Sam Jones, of Walsall Police, said: “We’re working hard to understand what has happened and why, and are taking swift action to prevent any further incidents.

“We don’t use section 60 powers lightly, but we will use all our powers to ensure the safety of people in the area.”

Extra officers will also be on the streets today and over the coming days to offer reassurance to worried residents.

Charles Foster Street is located just to the west of Darlaston town centre. It's a residential street situated less than a mile south of the Black Country Route and less than a mile north of the Black Country New Road.