Searches for weapons can now be completed "without grounds" for suspicion following a stabbing outside a McDonald’s.
Police officers in Worthing town centre have been given the powers after a 16-year-old sustained life-threatening injuries in an incident on Monday afternoon.
The incident, which has seen two arrests made, has led to an order being issued to allow officers to search and seize weapons.
Sussex Police Superintendent Nicholas Dias said: “The decision to put this order in place has not been taken lightly and shows the seriousness of our response after the incident which took place in the town centre on Monday.
"It is a short-term measure aimed at targeting and disrupting those committing these incidents.
“We continue to respond to concerns about anti-social behaviour from a small group of young people in and around the Worthing area, working closely with our partners.
“This includes working closely with Worthing District Council and key partners in Children’s Services to address these issues and keep our communities safe.”
A 17-year-old boy and 13-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm and remain in custody.
The victim of the stabbing remains in hospital in a serious condition.
Police were called to the incident outside McDonald’s in Liverpool Road in Worthing at 5.30pm on Monday, February 13.
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The Section 60 order issued under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 means that officers can search anyone and seize any weapons found in Worthing town centre to prevent further incidents.
Anyone who fails to submit to searches will be committing a criminal offence. The order is in place for the next 24 hours.
High-visibility patrols will also be carried out in Worthing town centre to provide re-assurance to the public following the incident.
The McDonald’s restaurant has since re-opened after police enquiries within the store.
Police are continuing their enquiries and wish to speak to anyone with information about the stabbing.
Witnesses or anyone with information about this incident are asked to report it to Sussex Police online and quote Operation Central.
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