Stop & Search

Anyone can be stopped and searched by the police, even if they don’t have a search warrant, if they suspect that you are in possession of drugs, stolen property, offensive weapons and some other specific things.

For a full list of police powers and the powers of stop, search and seizure see the Citizens Advice Bureau - Advice Guide website. There's lots more information on the site on how searches should be conducted, and stopping and searching vehicles.

Moving On

The police have the power to move you on if they believe that you are obstructing the lawful passage of any other person in any public places or if you (either individually or as part of a group) are conducting yourself in a riotous or disorderly manner anywhere, to the alarm, annoyance or disturbance of the public.

If you have been asked to move on, you are entitled to ask for a reason and should expect to receive one but if you refuse to move you are likely to be charged with an offence.

For a full list of police powers see the Citizens Advice Bureau - Advice Guide website.