Police seized illegal fireworks sold from back of a van in Handsworth (Image: WMP)

Police called to Stirchley after groups of youths 'cause chaos' on Halloween

by · Birmingham Live

Police were called to Stirchley after groups of youths ran amok on the streets during Halloween. Scared residents took to social media to report anti-social behaviour, fireworks being let off and verbal threats being made when challenged.

Images showed police vans and officers at various locations throughout the evening. West Midlands Police confirmed they went to Edwin Road and remained in the area.

The force said in a statement: "We were called to reports of disorder in Edwin Road, Stirchley, at around 10pm on Thursday (October 31). Officers attended and remained in the area to speak with and reassure residents, providing a visible presence.

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"If you are affected or have concerns about anti-social behaviour in your area, please call us on 101. Calling 101 means the situation does not need an immediate response and can be used to report suspicious behaviour, intelligence on a crime, or simply report a concern."

On November 1, groups launched fireworks at each other and buildings in Birmingham city centre. Videos on social media platform TikTok showed young people standing opposite each other on the pavement around Bagot Street and Staniforth Street, which are both home to student accommodation blocks for university students.

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A Section 35 dispersal order was enforced. A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, fireworks offences and assaulting an officer.

An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, violent disorder and fireworks offences. A 19-year-old man was arrested for assaulting an officer and has been dealt with by community resolution.

Officers spotted a man selling fireworks from the back of a van in Handsworth on Halloween. Further checks revealed his storage licence was expired and the van and fireworks were confiscated.

Officers are now investigating to see if this is linked to the disorder in Birmingham.