Two men have been stabbed in Manchester city centre, police have said.
Emergency services were called to Piccadilly Gardens just after midnight following reports of an ongoing disturbance in which weapons were seen.
Officers found two men – one in his 20s, the other in his 30s – with stab wounds.
Greater Manchester Police said both men were taken to hospital. The force said one was in a critical condition while the other was receiving “ongoing treatment”.
A force representative said its investigation was “ongoing” and no arrests have been made.
A Section 60 order has been approved within the ring road between Great Ancoats Street and Trinity Way, and Irwell Street between Trinity Way and New Quay Street.
The order gives officers extended powers to stop and search individuals within the area.
The representative said as it was authorised at 00:53 BST, it was “set to expire” at the same time on Friday morning.
Ch Insp Rob MacGregor said there would be “a significant presence of officers, particularly on foot patrol in the area today”.
“If you have any concerns or any information, then please speak to those officers who will reassure and respond to any queries,” he added.