Police patrolling Gedling borough are to get more powers to stop and search people they suspect of carrying acid and other corrosive substances.
Home Secretary Sajid Javid will widen the circumstances in which the tactics can be used after a consultation showed their is widespread support for the move.
Currently, police can only stop and search people they suspect of carrying acid with intent to cause injury.
Under the extension, officers would be able to stop and search anyone suspected of carrying a corrosive substance in a public place.
Home Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Anyone who carries acid to maim and disfigure others is a coward who deserves to face the full force of the law.
“That is why we are giving police officers greater powers to help bring them to justice and protect the public from their sickening crimes – which can leave victims’ with life-changing injuries.
“The police are clear stop and search is one of the most important tools they have in the fight against serious violence – I will continue to give them the support they need to do their vital work.
The Home Office will also keep under review the adequacy of existing powers to tackle offences related to the misuse of laser pointers.
