Two men arrested after knife seized in Birmingham

Two men, both aged 18, have been arrested following a Guardian Tasforce patrol in the Yardley area of Birmingham on Tuesday.

Officers from West Midlands Police's Guardian Taskforce were patrolling the streets when two men reacted to their presence and tried to run away.

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Following a short foot chase, the two were detained near Oaklands Reaction Ground, where a search was carried out, and a flick knife was found. 

Both men were arrested for possession of an offensive weapon.

A force spokesperson said: "Project Guardian is a specialist taskforce which tackles knife crime and youth violence. 

"There is a particular emphasis on reducing knife crime, through a range of tactics from plain-clothed operations to high visibility patrols and positive engagement with young people."

Those who see suspicious activity can contact West Midlands Police via their 101, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to stay anonymous.