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Five teenagers held in probe on racist attacks

Five teenagers have been arrested as police probe a series of terrifying racially-motivated attacks – including an assault on two pensioners.

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An investigation was launched last month when two men, aged 68 and 70, were kicked and punched in separate attacks by a group of teenagers in Cradley Heath.

In October another assault, near to Plant Street mosque, was reported when an eight-year-old boy was slapped.

And on October 20 a 52-year-old man was sitting in his Toyota car on Redhall Hill Road when the group of teenagers surrounded the car and kicked it, causing damage to the car.

Five teenagers aged 15, 17, 18 and two aged 16 have been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated assault and criminal damage.

They have now been bailed by police with a strict curfew, which prevents them from being outdoors from 6.30pm to 7am daily.

They are also barred from visiting Plant Street and Bearmore Park playing fields.

Officers continue to investigate the crimes and the five have been ordered to return from bail to a police station in December.

Chief Inspector Jane Parry, from Sandwell police station, said: "This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our area. We pride ourselves on the close working relationship we have with our local community and will always to seek prosecute people who commit crimes of this nature. Officers have been working closely with the local mosque and continue to offer reassurance to local residents.

"I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the crimes or may have any information that could help our investigation to come forward.

"Since the arrests we have not had any further reports of this kind and would like to thank the local community for their continuing help and support."

Officers from the Cradley Heath and Old Hill neighbourhood policing team regularly hold public meetings at Plant Street mosque, with the next taking place on November 29 from 1.15pm, where any worried residents can raise their concerns.

For personal safety advice or to report hate crimes visit www.report-it.org.uk

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