ENFIELD’S top police officer has moved to reassure the public over stop and search.

Borough commander, Chief Superintendent Adrian Hanstock says bobbies on the beat “have got the message” from communities on how best to carry-out the often controversial procedure.

Supt Hanstock said: “I go out on the streets and I see how officers operate.

"Members of the public tell me they like stop and search because it makes them more safe. "People who we search appreciate why we do it.

“There are people out there still carrying weapons so it is absolutely right that we do this.

“But we are doing it in controlled way which seems to be having an effect.

“Some people are disproportionately stopped in Edmonton.

“Those who are stopped are mainly young black people and we are acutely aware of that.

"We are working with our partners to make sure we are accountable.

"But more and more people are being brought to justice.”