Why Birmingham commuters will see extra police at New Street station today

Birmingham commuters have been told to expect extra police patrols at a major city station today, December 17. West Midlands Police officers were "descending on the city centre" and were focusing on New Street station and the city's shopping area.

The operation will see extra officers on patrol to "target shoplifters, and a push to bring in wanted suspects" as well as make shoppers and commuters in and around the station feel safe. Throughout Tuesday, officers will be in and around New Street station to reassure commuters and tackle anti-social behaviour as part of an initiative called Operation Advance.

Patrols will also take place to target busy shopping areas in the city in a crackdown on increased levels of shoplifting. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "Today, we’ll be focusing on targeting known shoplifters in and around the city’s busiest shopping areas, while speaking to retailers about how they can avoid falling victim to shoplifters at this busy time of year.

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"The operation began in the early hours, with warrants being carried out around the city to arrest people who are wanted but have so far eluded our officers. We’ve also got extra officers in the area around New Street Station to reassure commuters, tackle ASB and deter those using the transport network to come into the city to commit crime.

"Motorbike officers are joining others from our roads policing unit to stop vehicles linked to crime as they head into the city. And we’ll be using a knife arch to target those who think it’s acceptable to carry weapons in the city."

Chief Insp Sean Corrigan, from Birmingham Police, said: “Criminals are never welcome in Birmingham city centre, but today more than ever we’re getting that message out there.

“Operation Advance is a great way to bring a whole host of our officers, including specialist teams, together to make a real impact over the course of the day. If you’re working or visiting the city today, you’ll see us out and about.

"Please do stop and chat to us and let us know about the issues concerning you in Birmingham city centre. We’re committed to working with partners to make the city better and safer for everyone.”