A canal boat resident has issued a public warning after a man was seen committing indecent acts on two separate occasions near a children's soft play area in Sutton Coldfield.
Alarming Incidents on the Towpath
Steve Bates, who lives on a narrowboat, reported seeing a man 'pleasuring himself' by the side of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal in Minworth. The first incident occurred at around 8pm on Friday, December 12. Steve then reviewed his boat's CCTV, which captured the man again between 5am and 6am on Saturday, December 13.
The footage showed the individual walking up and down the towpath near the Hare and Hounds pub, close to Cottage Lane and Summer Lane. "On both occasions he can be seen pleasuring himself and showing off to our boat's windows," Steve stated. He added that the man was also seen taking photos of the boat and looking through a fence towards the pub's seating area and a children's soft play facility.
Police Investigation Underway
Steve has shared details of the suspect on social media, concealing his identity on police advice. He described the man as being in his late 20s to early 30s, of slim build and unshaven. His clothing included a baseball cap, jogging bottoms, and a jacket with a reflective rectangle on the back.
West Midlands Police confirmed they are investigating two reports of indecent exposure. A spokeswoman said: "Officers are making enquiries such as reviewing CCTV footage. Anyone with any information is asked to call 101 quoting 20/476737/25." The local neighbourhood team sergeant has been informed.
Concerns Over Canal-Side Safety
Steve, who had been moored at the location for the maximum 14-day period while travelling from Birmingham to Tamworth, expressed broader concerns about the area. He mentioned it is often used by drug dealers and described it as "a bit of a horrible area now."
Despite the unsettling events, he emphasised that the canal network is his life, stating it would be a much nicer place without such individuals. The search for the suspect continues as police urge witnesses to come forward.
