West Midlands Police (WMP) have said they have a robust policing plan in place to deal with any potential disorder involving fireworks in Birmingham around Halloween and Bonfire Night, and they won’t tolerate violence towards the public or their officers.
Last year officers saw an unacceptable, dangerous incidents of fireworks being let off at people, buildings, and police officers, in the city centre.
- Which resulted in 21 people in total being arrested around Halloween and Bonfire Night
- Nineteen were charged with a range of offences including violent disorder and assaulting police, with several currently going through the courts
WMP have said a robust plan is in place to deal with any similar disorder this year, and they’re warning anyone involved about consequences of their actions.
A spokesperson for WMP said: “You risk being arrested and charged, and if you’re a student living in the city, you could be in breach of your tenancy agreement and potentially being evicted – with your university education at risk.
“As ever, we’re working hard to make Birmingham the safest place possible, for everyone, and at times over the next couple of weeks, you can expect to see extra officers in key locations to prevent disorder.
“We would urge anyone with concerns or information to speak to them.”
Chief Inspector Dan Lowe, from our Operations Unit, said: “The scenes we saw last year were appalling, and we will not tolerate a repeat.
“That’s why we’re being clear: anyone who is involved in this irresponsible behaviour risks being arrested and prosecuted.
“We’re grateful for the support of our partners, including universities and accommodation block management, who share that view, and will also be taking appropriate action against anyone involved.
“As ever, we’re continuing to work with those partners, and others including West Midlands Fire Service, to keep everyone safe during this period.”
If you have concerns or information about fireworks and associated anti-social behaviour, call WMP on 101 or Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk
Alternatively, you can also pass on anonymous information by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or visit http://www.crimestoppers-uk.orgstoppers-uk.org
Always call 999 to report a crime in progress.
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