'The streets are not safe' -meeting called following spate of gun and knife crime in Birmingham suburb

A community activist has called an urgent public meeting to discuss the "escalating violence" in Lozells. Bishop Desmond Jaddoo said it is only a matter of time that an innocent person is struck by a 'stray bullet' following a spate of gun and knife crime, alarming locals.

On Sunday afternoon, a man was knifed on Lozells Road adjacent to the New Testament Church of God. Fortunately, his injuries were not said to be serious but it came exactly a week after a male was seriously injured in a shooting on Villa Road, close by.

Bishop Jaddoo said the community was worried by the constant police presence, cordons and road closures. He urged locals to attend and has also invited the police and other stakeholders.

Read More: Man stabbed in Lozells as community meeting called to discuss explosion in violence

Villa Road, specifically an area near a car park, was highlighted as one of the worst-hit crime streets in Lozells and East Handsworth in July 2024. There were recorded 11 offences which included three violent or sexual offences, two anti-social behaviour, two public order, one robbery, one criminal damage/ arson and two other crimes.

The Chair of Lozells Community Forum Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo MBE said "The issue of violence in the area has been highlighted for a number years now and the situation is actually getting worse. It is of concern to local businesses are finding it difficult to trade within the locality and residents are finding that their streets are no longer safe; not just for them but also the local children.

"It is fearful that it is only a matter of time before there is a stray bullet and an innocent person gets seriously injured. Urgent action is needed to be taken to deal with these issues.

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"This is an opportunity for the local community to step up have their voices heard and work actively with the authorities to seek tangible outcomes."

The meeting will take place at 7pm on Thursday (November 21) at Lozells Recreation Group, 2 Graham Street, Lozells.