THE STABBING of a teenage boy has led to an increase in police patrols in a town centre.

The boy sustained a stab wound during an incident in Longstone Road, Eastbourne, in the early hours of Friday, January 7.

The injury is not life-threatening, and he was subsequently released from hospital after treatment.

Chief Superintendent Howard Hodges said in response to the stabbing, police have increased patrols in the area and are using enhanced stop and search powers.

An authority under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 has been issued which will allow police officers to search anyone and seize any weapons found in the area of Eastbourne without grounds for a limited 24-hour period.

The 24-hour period lasts from 8.30pm on Friday, January 7, to the same time on Saturday, January 8.

Those who fail to submit to a search will be committing a criminal offence.

“The decision to put this order in place has not been taken lightly and shows the seriousness of our response in light of the incident which took place in Eastbourne town centre,” Chief Superintendent Hodges said.

"It is a short-term measure aimed at targeting and disrupting those committing incidents of violence and it complements work that we are doing in partnership with other agencies and the local community to reduce violence among young people.”

Anyone with information about the incident or any concerns is urged to contact police online or ring 101.