City Bonfire Night Trouble: Over 20 Arrested, Including Teenager
Police in Birmingham reported a series of violent incidents on Bonfire Night, November 5, which continued into the early hours of the following morning. Fireworks were launched recklessly, with some deliberately directed at officers and members of the public.
The disturbances occurred mainly around Dale End and nearby Staniforth Street, between Aston Expressway and Bagot Street — an area known for its student residences. Authorities described scenes involving groups of youths carrying weapons and engaging in violent behavior.
“Fireworks were aimed at police and the public, and several officers were attacked as groups moved through the area,” said the West Midlands Police.
In total, officers made 21 arrests, including suspects as young as 14 years old. The alleged offences include violent disorder, assaulting officers, breaching the peace, and setting off fireworks in public.
Those arrested, aged between 14 and 25, remained in custody for questioning. A section 60 order granting police wider stop‑and‑search powers was active throughout the night and early Thursday, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of both weapons and fireworks.
Police stated that the order "led to multiple proactive arrests being made, along with the seizures of weapons and fireworks."
Author’s Summary
Youth violence erupted across Birmingham on Bonfire Night, with police arresting over twenty individuals — including a 14‑year‑old — after officers were attacked and weapons seized.