West Midlands Police have pledged to dismantle criminal networks exploiting mini marts for child sexual abuse and exploitation, as part of a renewed effort to transform 'intimidating' high streets into 'safe spaces'. The commitment was made by Acting Chief Constable Scott Green during a meeting of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner accountability and governance board.
Operation Fearless Expansion
ACC Green confirmed that Operation Fearless, launched in January 2025, is being scaled up to double its operational footprint across the force. The operation, which has already been successful in Erdington and Handsworth, focuses on tackling high street crime, including the illegal drug market and illicit trade.
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Wasim Ali raised concerns about mini marts being linked to illegal cigarettes, vapes, drugs, and child sexual abuse and exploitation. He noted that similar issues had been discussed earlier in the year regarding Dudley.
Multi-Agency Enforcement
ACC Green stated: 'West Midlands Police has delivered a proven, nationally recognised operation through Operation Fearless. We are focused on dismantling High Street crime and clearing criminal elements from our communities using that framework.' He added that the methodology focuses on turning high streets 'from intimidating zones into safe spaces'.
The operation involves multi-agency enforcement targeting illicit trade disruption. Police have seized millions of pounds worth of illegal vapes, counterfeit tobacco, and prescription drugs. The force is also focusing on exploitation and safeguarding by targeting and neutralising exploiters in trafficking and grooming.
Funding and New Powers
Mr Ali highlighted new enhanced powers and funding announced by the Home Office to tackle criminality connected to mini marts, vape shops, barbers, and car washes. He asked for an update on how West Midlands Police plans to use these resources.
ACC Green outlined a two-pronged expansion package: firstly, doubling specialist resources through investment from the Police and Crime Commissioner and additional force resources; secondly, integrating financial intelligence and asset seizing specialists into core operational teams to dismantle overarching criminal networks.
Reinvesting in Communities
ACC Green emphasised that proceeds of crime work aims to strip wealth from criminals, breaking their capacity and ensuring money is reinvested back into communities. 'We want thriving commercial hubs, we want safe high streets that are vibrant places to shop,' he said.
