Seven arrested after city centre firework disorder
Quick Look
- Seven people aged 15 to 26 have been arrested in Birmingham city centre following reports of dangerous fireworks use.
- Police deployed Section 60 stop-and-search powers after crowds were seen setting off fireworks near officers and vehicles.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
West Midlands Police increased patrols following serious fireworks-related violence in Birmingham on November 6 of the previous year.
Seven people have been arrested after disorder, involving fireworks being set off, in a city centre.
Footage posted on social media showed crowds gathered on Corporation Street in Birmingham, with fireworks being set off close to police officers and vehicles.
West Midlands Police had warned firm action would be taken against anyone involved in fireworks-related disorder, following serious incidents in the city during Bonfire Night last year.
Those arrested, aged between 15 and 26, were held on suspicion of offences including assault, possession of fireworks and possession of an offensive weapon.
They all remain in custody for questioning, the force said.
Officers used Section 60 stop-and-search powers, which allow searches without the need to have reasonable grounds to do so.
The arrests were made in and around Stephenson Street and Corporation Street, after officers responded to "pockets of disorder," involving fireworks being set off in a dangerous manner, said the force.
Ch Supt Tom Boyce said: "Misusing fireworks is not only dangerous: it's illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges."
The force said extra officers had been deployed at key locations to prevent a repeat of last year's violence.
On 6 November, 21 people were arrested after officers were attacked with fireworks on Dale End and Staniforth Street.
Open Questions
- Are there any injuries reported among officers or the public?
- Will further arrests be made based on social media footage?
