A GANG armed with samurai swords and machetes stormed through the town in the early hours of the morning.

Police were made aware of a public order incident at 3am where a gang was seen with weapons in the area of Regents Street, Reading.

There were reports of up to eight people armed with samurai swords and machetes and damage to vehicles. No injuries have been reported.

Thames Valley Police has enacted a Section 60 this morning (February 24)

The order has been put in place for 24 hours and will expire at 3.20am tomorrow (25/2).

A Section 60 can only be put in place in a defined area at a specific time when a senior officer believes there is a possibility of serious violence, or weapons being carried.

The order temporarily enhances the powers for officers, meaning they can stop and search anyone in the area shown on the map below.

Police will review the order tomorrow at 3.20am tomorrow and it could be extended further.

Inspector Tom Day, based at Reading police station, said: “We have put this order in place while we carry out our investigation into this large public order incident.

“The order will give our officers extra powers to carry out stop and search activity, and has been enacted for the safety of the public.

“I understand that an order of this nature could cause concern, but while it may sound alarming, enhancing our stop and search powers provides us with another tactic to quickly identify and disrupt those carrying weapons.

“If you are stopped by an officer, please do not be worried as this does not mean that you are in trouble.

“You will see more police officers in the area while the order is in place and we expect to carry out more stop and searches than usual.

“Officers who are out and about are there to reassure you as well as using their powers under Section 60 so please do stop and speak with them about any concerns that you have.

“Anyone with information about this incident should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43230084723.

“Alternatively, provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”