Seven people have been arrested after disorder, involving fireworks being set off, in a city centre. <\/p>\n
Footage posted on social media showed crowds gathered on Corporation Street in Birmingham, with fireworks being set off close to police officers and vehicles. <\/p>\n
West Midlands Police had warned firm action would be taken against anyone involved in fireworks-related disorder, following serious incidents in the city during Bonfire Night last year. <\/p>\n
Those arrested, aged between 15 and 26, were held on suspicion of offences including assault, possession of fireworks and possession of an offensive weapon. <\/p>\n
They all remain in custody for questioning, the force said.<\/p>\n
Officers used Section 60 stop-and-search powers, which allow searches without the need to have reasonable grounds to do so. <\/p>\n
The arrests were made in and around Stephenson Street and Corporation Street, after officers responded to “pockets of disorder,” involving fireworks being set off in a dangerous manner, said the force. <\/p>\n
Ch Supt Tom Boyce said: “Misusing fireworks is not only dangerous: it’s illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges.”<\/p>\n