Police visit Walsall supermarkets in crackdown on illegal firework sales
The initiative aims to prevent fireworks from falling into the wrong hands
Police officers have visited supermarkets across Walsall as part of a campaign to tackle the illegal sale of fireworks and prevent anti-social behaviour around Bonfire Night.
Neighbourhood officers joined forces with Walsall Council's Community Protection team to remind retailers of the laws surrounding the sale of fireworks and sparklers.
PC Jay Bradburn, Walsall's business crime co-ordinator, was among those visiting town centre supermarkets, including Tesco and Asda, which are supporting the campaign.
Staff were handed leaflets highlighting that it is illegal to sell fireworks and sparklers to anyone under the age of 18.
The initiative aims to prevent fireworks from falling into the wrong hands amid concerns they can be used to fuel anti-social behaviour.
PC Bradburn said: "We are linked in closely with businesses in the town centre.
"Bonfire night can be a fun time of the year but it can also be a time when we see an increase in anti-social behaviour if fireworks and sparklers get in the wrong hands."
The visits form part of West Midlands Police's Mischief Fortnight campaign, which aims to keep communities safe during the busy Halloween and Bonfire Night period.
Officers are stepping up patrols across neighbourhoods and around popular event locations in the run-up to November 5 in a bid to deter crime and ensure celebrations take place safely.
Police are also encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.