Zero tolerance approach to any planned fireworks disorder

Zero tolerance approach to any planned fireworks disorder

Dear Resident,
We’ve got a robust policing plan in place to deal with any potential disorder involving fireworks in Birmingham around Halloween and Bonfire Night, and we won’t tolerate violence towards the public or our officers.

Last year, we saw unacceptable, dangerous incidents of fireworks being let off at people, buildings, and our officers, in the city centre.

We took immediate action, which resulted in 21 people in total being arrested around Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Nineteen were charged with a range of offences including violent disorder and assaulting police, with several currently going through the courts.

We have a robust plan in place to deal with any similar disorder this year, and we’re warning anyone involved about their consequences of their actions.

You risk being arrested and charged, and if you’re a student living in the city, you could be in breach of your tenancy agreement and potentially being evicted - with your university education at risk.

As ever, we’re working hard to make Birmingham the safest place possible, for everyone, and at times over the next couple of weeks, you can expect to see extra officers in key locations to prevent disorder.

We would urge anyone with concerns or information to speak to them.

Chief Inspector Dan Lowe, from our Operations Unit, said: “The scenes we saw last year were appalling, and we will not tolerate a repeat.

“That’s why we’re being clear: anyone who is involved in this irresponsible behaviour risks being arrested and prosecuted.

“We’re grateful for the support of our partners, including universities and accommodation block management, who share that view, and will also be taking appropriate action against anyone involved.

“As ever, we’re continuing to work with those partners, and others including West Midlands Fire Service, to keep everyone safe during this period.”

If you have concerns or information about fireworks and associated anti-social behaviour, call us on 101 or speak to us via Live Chat on our website.

You can also pass on anonymous information via the independent charity Crimestoppers.

Always call 999 to report a crime in progress.