Police reassurance over Walsall attack investigation

West Midlands Police was accused of a “systemic failure” and inaction over how it investigated an incident which took place in Lord Street, Palfrey, on March 1.

But chief constable Dave Thompson told a Strategic Policing and Crime Board panel today that positive meetings with the community have been held to address concerns.

He had been asked to provide public reassurance by West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson.

Abdul Hafiz, 44, and his 38-year-old brother Abdulla Al Mamun said they were severely beaten after asking revellers holding a lockdown party to keep the noise down.

Mr Hafiz was knocked unconscious for around 15 minutes and suffered a fractured hip, while Mr Al Mamun was left with facial injuries in the attack.

But they said there was a lack of action by police to deal with that incident as well as previous complaints on parties being held, prompting outrage in the community.

Dialogue

A letter outlining concerns sent to Mr Thompson by Walsall activist and Labour NEC member Mish Rahman, was signed by more than 1,500 people and circulated publicly.

Mr Thompson said: “I think the best way these things are often taken forward is by dialogue.

“Following the letters, which I have replied to, Andy Parsons the chief superintendent of Walsall, has met the author, the victims of the crime and some members of the community to discuss those issues.

“I think they had an incredibly productive meeting yesterday.

“Inevitably there are things we agree on and disagree on about the version of events and I think the most important thing is we come together and we share those.

“West Midlands Police has responded to incidents which took place on Lord Street and there is an investigation around the assaults.

“Sharing and updating those things have helped inform the community as the police have been informed on some of the issues and concerns the community also feels.

“I think the matters are well and truly under way now, they are being managed in Walsall with the local policing team and with the community.

“Hopefully, I think this coming together will help us improve the safety for all the residents there and increase policing insights around some of the concerns and issues the community have felt.

“I’m very happy we are on the right track with that now. I think the meeting has been very positive and I think it will clarify and keep the community updated but also build stronger relationships as a result of the correspondence.”