POLICE ARREST SEVEN AFTER BIRMINGHAM FIREWORKS DISORDER

West Midlands Police arrested seven people after fireworks were set off in a dangerous manner in Birmingham city centre on Halloween. Officers responded to "pockets of disorder" on Corporation Street and around Birmingham New Street, with footage showing crowds gathered as fireworks exploded near police officers, vehicles and pedestrians, the force said. Police held those arrested, aged between 15 and 26, on suspicion of offences including assault, possession of fireworks and possession of an offensive weapon. All seven remained in custody for questioning on Sunday afternoon, the force said.

Officers made the arrests in and around Stephenson Street and Corporation Street, using Section 60 powers that allow stop-and-searches without the need for reasonable grounds. West Midlands Police said it had warned that firm action would follow any fireworks-related disorder, after serious incidents during Bonfire Night last year. On 6 November 2025, police arrested 21 people after officers were attacked with fireworks on Dale End and Staniforth Street. West Midlands Police deployed extra officers at key locations in the city centre to prevent a repeat of that violence.

A senior officer, named as either Tom Boyce or Tom Joyce, said: "Misusing fireworks is not only dangerous: it's illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges." The officer said a "robust" policing plan had been in place for the weekend, adding that West Midlands Police was "working closely with local partners" to tackle anti-social behaviour. A force spokesperson said: "The safety of our communities is paramount, and we'll do all we can to ensure this." The force did not say when those in custody would be released or charged.