Met Police in Greenwich have issued 24-hour Section 60 powers across parts south east London from tonight at 5pm until January 12.

A statement posted online by Met Police Greenwich said:"Section 60 search powers have been authorised for the following wards - Woolwich Riverside, Woolwich Common, Glyndon, Plumstead, Abbey Wood and Thamesmead Moorings."

Section 60 is a legitimate power and a tactical option for Met Police to use in the prevention of serious violence and the detection of dangerous instruments and offensive weapons.

It also gives police the right to search people in a defined area during a specific time period when they believe, with good reason, that serious violence is likely to take place and it is necessary to use this power to prevent such violence.