A man in his 20s has been arrested after police discovered a live handgun and ammunition in his bag during a stop-and-search in Birmingham's Balsall Heath area.
Incident Details
The arrest occurred on George Street in the early hours of Sunday, July 12, following reports of a man seen carrying a gun. Firearms officers from Sparkbrook responded to the scene and conducted a search, uncovering a bag containing a live firearm and deadly ammunition.
The suspect was detained and is currently being questioned by West Midlands Police officers. The street, a largely residential area with churches, an off-licence, a park, and businesses, was temporarily affected by the operation.
Police Statement
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “A man has been arrested and a firearm seized after some good work by our officers in Birmingham. Firearms officers in Sparkbrook stopped and searched a man after receiving a report of a gun being seen in George Street. While searching the man, officers found a bag containing a live handgun and ammunition. The man, aged in his 20s, was arrested on suspicion of firearms possession and remains in custody today while our enquiries continue.”
Ongoing Investigation
The statement added: “Our specially-trained firearms officers carry out regular proactive operations and respond to incidents across the West Midlands. As part of Operation Target, our teams work to take action against serious and organised crime including drugs, firearms and exploitation. Remember, you can play your part in keeping our streets safer by reporting any suspicious activity to us via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”
The recovered weapon is believed to be connected to a recent shooting of a boy, though investigations are ongoing. Police have not disclosed further details about the suspect's background or potential links to other crimes.
