Police in Birmingham have arrested multiple individuals and seized illegal fireworks following a night of serious disorder in the city centre. Groups were seen launching fireworks from buildings and into the streets, with some aimed at police officers and vehicles. Officers swiftly responded to the disturbances around Bagot Street and Staniforth Street, implementing a dispersal order and deploying drones to identify suspects involved in the reckless activity.
A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, fireworks offences, and assaulting an officer. Additionally, an 18-year-old man faces charges of possession of an offensive weapon, violent disorder, and fireworks offences, while a 19-year-old has been dealt with through community resolution after an alleged assault on an officer.
Further patrols in Handsworth led officers to seize a van loaded with fireworks being sold without a valid storage licence. Police are now investigating potential links between this and the disorder in the city.
A police spokesperson condemned the incidents, stating, “We won’t tolerate such appalling behaviour, which is frightening for the public and poses a significant risk to safety.” They assured the public of continued, focused police operations over the coming days to maintain community safety.
The investigation team is currently reviewing footage, and further prosecutions are expected as efforts to hold those responsible for the disorder continue.