An investigation is underway following three serious incidents in Preston this afternoon (Sunday 26 January).

The first took place at around 3.45pm. A man in his 50s was approached by an unknown male at Sainsbury’s at Deepdale and was stabbed to the abdomen. He is currently in hospital undergoing surgery, however his injury is not believed to be life threatening.

Later on at around 6.45pm, a woman in her 20s contacted emergency services explaining she had been assaulted in the vicinity of Blackpool Road. She has been taken to hospital to be treated for a single stab wound to her abdomen. It is unknown at this stage, whether she had anything stolen from her.

The final incident happened around five minutes later with a teenage boy reporting he had been threatened with a knife and had his bike stolen. This was on Deepdale Retail Park.

Police are treating the incidents as being linked at this stage.

A 16-year-old boy from Preston has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery, robbery and section 18 wounding. He is currently in police custody.

As a result of these incidents, patrols have been increased in the area and a section 60 order will be in place tonight. It’s in effect from 7.15pm until 3am tomorrow (Monday) and covers the areas shown in the image below.

A Section 60 gives police the power to search people or vehicles without suspicion in an area where they believe violence could take place.

Inspector Phil Orme of Preston Police, said: “These are very serious incidents where violence or threats of violence have been used.

“The incidents have been confined to a small geographic area and have been very similar in nature. At this stage, we believe they are linked.

“While we have made an arrest, our enquiries are very much ongoing. If you witnessed any of these crimes taking place or have any information at all that could help, please get in touch as soon possible.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log number 1152 of 26 January.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.