"If you are misusing fireworks, you can expect to be dealt with"
Two men have been arrested after fireworks were set off from a rooftop in Birmingham city centre.
West Midlands Police officers were patrolling the area throughout Friday night and Saturday morning when they were called to Dale End.
Police used drones to search the surrounding area before detaining two men, aged 26 and 28.
Both were arrested on suspicion of illegally throwing fireworks in a public place and remained in custody for questioning.
The arrests were made during a wider policing operation across Birmingham city centre.
Officers were deployed around the Christmas markets, alongside additional patrols on Bagot Street and Staniforth Street.
The operation followed several incidents involving fireworks being set off across the city centre over the past week.
On Halloween, seven people aged between 15 and 26 were arrested after fireworks were launched close to police officers and vehicles on Corporation Street.
The incident raised concerns about the potential dangers posed by fireworks being misused in crowded public spaces.
Three teenage boys were also detained following reports of fireworks being thrown towards buildings on Staniforth Street, near Aston University, during Bonfire Night.
Police confirmed they would introduce Section 60 stop and search powers in and around Birmingham city centre from 16:00 GMT on Saturday.
The powers allow officers to stop and search individuals without needing reasonable grounds for suspicion.
Officers can also require people to remove face coverings during the designated period.
The measures will remain in place until 07:00 on Sunday, with police maintaining a presence across the area throughout the night.
Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce said:
“This kind of behaviour is irresponsible and dangerous, and misusing fireworks is against the law.”
“If you are misusing fireworks, you can expect to be dealt with and prosecuted, and if you’re gathering to watch this kind of behaviour, you’re putting yourself at risk of injury.”
The police operation aims to address concerns following repeated fireworks incidents across Birmingham city centre.
The additional patrols and stop and search powers are intended to help officers identify those involved and prevent further disruption.
Fireworks can cause serious injuries when used irresponsibly, particularly when directed towards people, buildings or emergency service vehicles.
The latest arrests come as police continue efforts to maintain public safety during the busy festive period.
Residents and visitors have been urged to remain aware of their surroundings as officers continue patrols across the city centre.
