Stop-search powers fight acid attacks

TOUGHER stop-andsearch powers aimed at stopping acid attacks are to be handed to police.

Officers who suspect a person has acid in a public place will not have to believe they plan to cause injury, as is the case now.

Ministers also want a portable kit so police can test liquids on the street.

Policing Minister Nick Hurd said the moves “will enable officers to prevent terrible crimes”.

New powers will also allow officers to search anyone they suspect of carrying a drone or laser for criminal purposes.