There has been another instance of ‘disorder’ between groups of youths, police saidAn aerial view of Oldham town centre(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)

Two orders giving police extra powers have been slapped on Oldham town centre tonight after violence broke out.

Police say they have taken the action after reports of ‘disorder’ before 1:30pm today (Tuesday, December 9). The precise location has not been disclosed.

Five people have been arrested, two on suspicion of violent disorder and three on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said

It is the latest in a number of ‘repeat incidents of disorder between groups of youths’, the force added. As a result both a section 35 dispersal order and a section 60 stop and search order have been put in place.

Dispersal orders, allow officers to issue a written notice to people they believe are, or may, engage in anti-social behaviour ordering them to leave a defined area for 48 hours. If they breach the order, they can be arrested.

A Section 60 order gives officers powers to search people for items including weapons ,without suspicion, in a defined area.

Both orders, which cover virtually all of the town centre, were put into place at 1:25pm this afternoon. The dispersal order will be in effect for 48 hours, until 1:25 on Thursday (December 11). And the Section order lasts for 24 hours, until 1:25 pm tomorrow (Wednesday, December 10).

GMP said that ‘neighbourhood officers will maintain a high-visibility presence in the area and will use these powers where necessary to keep the public safe.’

Inspector Amie Whitehead, the force’s Neighbourhood Inspector FOR Oldham South & West said: “These measures are in place to prevent further disorder and ensure the safety of those living, working and visiting Oldham Town Centre.

“We will not tolerate antisocial behaviour and will take robust action against anyone involved.

“These powers are crucial to preventing any further offences from taking place. If you have any concerns or any information, then please speak to those officers who are there to help.”