A police crackdown that saw scores of people stopped and searched across Birmingham city centre resulting in three arrests has been praised by Westside BID.
The operation under Section 60 powers took place for 24 hours from 5pm on Wednesday 16 February after a 16-year-old boy had been stabbed on Steelhouse Lane earlier that day.
West Midlands Police’s city centre team was joined by youth workers, the violence reduction unit and officers from the guardian taskforce team – which focuses on under 25 violence and knife crime.
During the operation 144 people were searched, resulting in the recovery of a weapon, and the person with that weapon was arrested on suspicion of possessing a bladed article.
Two other people were also arrested – one for sexual assault and theft, while the other was wanted by another force. Officers issued 16 dispersal orders instructing people to leave the city centre to prevent anti-social behaviour, crime or violence.
Police also referred seven youths to partner agencies to make sure they received appropriate help and support.
Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, said: “West Midlands Police consulted Westside BID and other city centre agencies about the need for this operation.
“I was able to ask them why this was needed and from the answers I received I felt the need was justified and welcomed this close quarters, proactive policing.
“S60 powers can be seen as a harsh measure, but at times this is required in a controlled and measured manner for those in the criminal community who unfortunately ignore the law.
“We have to allow our police to act on their instincts, and the results achieved are clearly of value, as is the clear message this operation sends out that criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Chief Inspector James Spencer, from Birmingham Police, said: “We don’t take the decision to use section 60 powers lightly, but in the right circumstances and with the support of the community, it can be a useful tool.
“We’ll be carrying out a review of the operation – including stop and search scrutiny panels – to see what we can learn from the last few days and we’re keen to hear feedback on this.
“We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to keeping our city safe. We’re grateful for the support we’ve seen from the public and we’ll continue to work with them to ensure the city can be safely enjoyed by all.”
A West Midlands Polices spokesperson added that the teenager stabbed on Wednesday was taken to hospital, but was not thought to have serious injuries.
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