Seven arrested in Birmingham during Halloween disorder with 'dangerous' fireworks
Seven people were arrested in Birmingham last night
Seven people were arrested in Birmingham as police responded to “pockets of disorder” in the city centre last night.
Individuals aged between 15 and 26 were arrested for offences including assault, possession of fireworks and possession of an offensive weapon after police were called to reports of fireworks “being set off in a dangerous manner”, West Midlands Police said.
The arrests were made on Saturday night (October 31) in and around Stephenson Street and Corporation Street, areas that were subject to enhanced Section 60 stop and search powers overnight.
All seven individuals remained in police custody this morning for questioning.
Section 60 powers allow police to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds.
The enhanced powers were granted following several incidents involving knives in Birmingham including a fatal stabbing in Coventry Road, Small Heath on Wednesday (October 28). A 46-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Abdillahi Farid Ali.
Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce of Birmingham Police said: “We have had a robust plan in place for this weekend to deal with any disorder including Section 60 powers which allows us to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds.
“The safety of our communities is paramount, and we'll do all we can to ensure this.
"Misusing fireworks is not only dangerous: it’s illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges.
"We’re working closely with local partners to respond to reports of anti-social behaviour and keep our communities safe.”