Stop-and-search to target knife crime 'hotspots'

Police say patrols are to be increased after knife crime surge

- PAUL BRITTON

UNIFORMED patrols will be increased in 'hot-spot' areas as police step up a knife crime operation following a series of stabbing tragedies.

Stop-and-search powers will be used, police chiefs have said.

The operation follows three fatal stabbings in Greater Manchester on three consecutive weekends.

Over just 16 days, Kennie Carter, 16, was stabbed to death in Stretford, Trafford; Alan Szelugowski, 17, died after being stabbed in Clowes Park, Salford, and Dylan Keelan, 20, died after being stabbed in Dukinfield, Tameside.

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with Dylan's murder - and investigating detectives have made a series of other arrests in connection with the inquiry.

A 13-year-old boy from Hulme has become the 12 arrest made by Greater Manchester Police in connection with the murder of teenager Kennie.

He was has been released on bail pending further inquiries.