Seven people were arrested in Birmingham city centre after fireworks were launched at crowds and police during Halloween night, with witnesses describing the scene as a "warzone".
Video footage obtained by Birmz Is Grime appears to show individuals setting off fireworks towards people enjoying a night out on New Street on Saturday night. The footage also captures police officers pursuing suspects along the street as fireworks erupted near several riot vans.
Police respond to disorder
West Midlands Police said seven people, aged between 15 and 26, were arrested on suspicion of a range of offences following the disorder. A Section 60 order was in place last night and into the early hours of this morning, giving officers extra powers to carry out stop and searches of those suspected of carrying weapons or fireworks.
The arrests were made in and around Stephenson St and Corporation St. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We responded to reports of fireworks being set off in a dangerous manner. In total we arrested seven people (aged between 15 and 26) for a number of offences including assault, possession of fireworks and possession of an offensive weapon. They all remain in custody for questioning."
Witness describes mayhem
One onlooker said: "It was like a warzone. People were just letting off fireworks at each other like it was just a bit of harmless fun. I didn't see anyone getting hurt but I would be amazed if nobody was injured during that as fireworks were exploding next to people in the street. It was mayhem."
Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce, from Birmingham Police, said: "We have had a robust plan in place for this weekend to deal with any disorder including section 60 powers which allows us to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds. The safety of our communities is paramount, and we'll do all we can to ensure this. Misusing fireworks is not only dangerous: it's illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges. We're working closely with local partners to respond to reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and keep our communities safe."
