Stop-and-search orders after boy, 13, stabbed

Police have introduced temporary stop-and-search powers in a town centre after a 13-year-old boy was stabbed.

Greater Manchester Police said the powers also followed reports of youths carrying weapons and wider disorder in Rochdale.

The boy remained in hospital receiving treatment after suffering serious injuries, while two teenage boys were arrested on suspicion of assault and possession of a bladed article.

The force said inquiries were continuing to identify other people who may have been involved, with additional officers due to patrol the town centre.

The section 60 and section 60AA authorisation began at 15:00 BST on Sunday and is due to remain in force until 15:00 on Monday.

Police said the powers allow officers to stop and search people in a designated area and require the removal of items believed to be worn mainly to conceal someone's identity.

Officers were initially called to Riverside Walk at 18:09 on Saturday following reports of a stabbing.

Police later said the attack happened near the Riverside Shopping Centre.

Images posted on social media after the attack appeared to show several police vehicles outside a Taco Bell restaurant on Riverside Walk and officers in forensic clothing inside the venue.

GMP has not said whether the attack happened inside the restaurant.

Det Supt Richard Hunt described it as a "serious and sustained attack" and said detectives were reviewing CCTV and gathering witness statements.

Police appealed for witnesses and anyone with mobile phone, CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.