Police have released a CCTV image of a man they want to identify after a victim was punched outside a Sutton Coldfield pub, leaving him requiring surgery. The attack occurred shortly after England's World Cup group stage match against Ghana, which ended in a 0-0 draw.
Details of the Incident
The assault took place in the early hours of Wednesday, June 24, outside The Gate Inn pub on Mill Street. The victim, who has not been named, was rushed to hospital with injuries that necessitated surgical intervention. West Midlands Police are now appealing for public assistance to identify the suspect captured on CCTV.
Officers describe the man in the image as having curly brown hair and a beard, and he was wearing a black t-shirt at the time of the incident.
Police Appeal
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We'd like to speak to this man about an assault in Sutton Coldfield. A man was punched outside a pub on Mill Street, in the early hours of Wednesday 24 June, suffering injuries which left him needing surgery. If you recognise the man pictured or can help our investigation call 101, or speak to us via Live Chat, quoting 20/299234/26."
The attack is believed to have occurred shortly after the final whistle of England's World Cup match, which drew a large crowd to the pub. Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to come forward.
How to Help
Information can also be shared anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of Mill Street around the time of the assault and may have witnessed the altercation.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence that has blighted the region, with similar appeals for other crimes. The force has increasingly relied on CCTV images to trace suspects in public order offences.
