Eleven people have been arrested in a Birmingham suburb as police seized guns, knives, and drugs during a three-day crackdown. Operation Fearless officers from West Midlands Police have been targeting the Soho Road and Handsworth triangle area since mid-May.
Last weekend, weapons were confiscated, a drug deal was spotted by an off-duty police worker, and 11 suspects were taken into custody. The operation aims to drive down crime and improve the area for residents, workers, and visitors.
Arrests and Seizures
On Friday, May 29, a 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a kitchen knife outside a supermarket. He was charged and remanded in custody to appear before Birmingham magistrates on Monday, June 1. The same day, a 41-year-old man wanted for wounding and a 27-year-old man wanted for criminal damage and assault were also arrested. A lock knife and cannabis were seized from the 27-year-old, who was charged and due in court on June 1.
On Saturday, an off-duty police staff member flagged down officers after witnessing a drug deal. A suspect was arrested, and cannabis and cash were found, along with two BB guns at an address linked to him. The 24-year-old man was released on bail pending further investigation.
Violent Disorder Arrests
On Sunday, May 31, the team joined response officers at a violent disorder scene on Rookery Road, where seven people were arrested.
Community Partnership
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “The Fearless team officially landed in the area on May 13 to drive down crime and work with partners to make the area better for everyone who lives, works, and visits there. Operation Fearless has made dozens of arrests since arriving on the Soho Road and Handsworth Triangle. They are working with partners such as the Business Improvement District and Trading Standards to tackle the crimes that cause the most harm to the community.”
