City Bonfire Night Disturbances Lead to Over 20 Arrests Including a 14-Year-Old
On the night of November 5, Birmingham experienced significant unrest as police and members of the public were targeted with fireworks. Authorities confirmed more than 20 arrests related to violent incidents and weapons possession during Bonfire Night celebrations, extending into the early hours of November 6.
Events and Location of Disturbances
The disturbances occurred primarily in the Dale End area and near Staniforth Street, close to the Aston Expressway and Bagot Street, a known area with many student residences. Youths were seen carrying weapons and causing disorder while groups roamed the streets, police reported.
Police Response and Arrests
West Midlands Police confirmed 21 arrests involving individuals aged 14 to 25. Charges included violent disorder, assaulting a police officer, breach of the peace, and the illegal use of fireworks in public.
A Section 60 order was active, providing officers with extended stop and search powers throughout the night, which contributed to multiple arrests and the confiscation of weapons and fireworks.
“Officers faced deliberate attacks with fireworks and encountered groups causing violence, leading to swift proactive arrests and seizures,” said the West Midlands force.
Summary
The Bonfire Night disturbances in Birmingham involved dangerous behavior like targeting police with fireworks and weapons possession, resulting in numerous arrests and increased police enforcement measures.
Author's summary: Nearly two dozen arrests, including a young teenager, highlight the severity of violence and weapon-related offenses during Birmingham’s Bonfire Night events.