Authorities in Birmingham have implemented additional policing measures following a series of recent serious crimes in targeted neighborhoods. West Midlands Police announced the activation of Section 60 powers, enabling officers to conduct stop-and-search operations without requiring reasonable suspicion. These measures aim to enhance public safety amid ongoing investigations into a firearms discharge and a severe assault earlier this month.
Deployment Details and Timeline
Extra officers are patrolling key areas to provide reassurance to residents. The enhanced powers cover Winson Green, along with portions of Rotton Park and Brookfields, extending from Handsworth Booth Street through the Jewellery Quarter to Edgbaston village. They take effect from 7 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, and remain active until 3 a.m. on Sunday, February 1.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson stated: “We will be using Section 60 powers in parts of Birmingham this evening and overnight. These powers allow us to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds. It follows recent serious incidents we’re investigating, including a firearms discharge and Section 18 wounding earlier in January. The powers will be in place in the specified area from 7 p.m. today until 3 a.m. tomorrow morning.”
Focus on Community Safety
The primary goal of these operations is to maintain security for all residents. Officers emphasize an increased presence in the affected zones to build community confidence. For more information on stop-and-search procedures, residents can refer to official West Midlands Police resources.
