Four teenagers arrested after disorder with weapons in Birmingham city centre
A 13-year-old boy is among four teenagers who remain in custody after police responded to reports of disorder involving weapons in Birmingham city centre. West Midlands Police received multiple calls about the incident on Corporation Street just after 11.20pm on Thursday, July 16.
Three teenage boys, aged 13, 16, and 18, were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. A 19-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of robbery in connection with an unrelated incident that occurred in June. All four remain in custody for questioning.
Police response and extra patrols
Officers responded quickly to the scene, using CCTV and assistance from the Drone Unit to track the suspects, who were detained nearby. In a statement, police said: “With schools in Birmingham breaking up for the summer, we’re setting out our plans to keep everyone safe.”
“Although there’s no suggestion of any planned disruption, we’ve previously seen some instances of anti-social behaviour and large groups of young people gathering in the city centre – which we know can be a concern for those living and working in the city, and visitors.”
Extra police resources have been deployed, meaning members of the public may see more officers than usual carrying out high-visibility patrols in key locations, routes, and transport hubs. Dispersal orders are also in place in the city centre, Sutton Coldfield, and Kings Heath, giving officers the power to direct people to leave these areas to prevent or reduce anti-social behaviour, harassment, disorder, or crime. Anyone returning after being told to leave can be arrested.
Similar operation in June
A similar operation in June led to two arrests and the recovery of a large knife. Chief Inspector for Birmingham city centre, Vicki Stott, said: “Birmingham is a great place to be in the sunshine, and we want to make sure that everyone can enjoy it as the schools break up.”
“This isn’t about stopping young people from having a good time, but about taking appropriate action to deal with behaviour which we know can be concerning for others in the city centre. Previous similar operations have shown that the vast majority of people we speak to are in good spirits, but we’re clear that criminality and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Police are continuing to work closely with partners, including local schools, to speak directly to young people and parents about making safe decisions during the summer break.
