Police Taskforce Makes Multiple Arrests in Birmingham Operations
West Midlands Police have reported a series of successful interventions by their specialist Guardian Taskforce over a busy weekend in Birmingham, resulting in three arrests and the recovery of dangerous weapons and suspected drugs.
City Centre Drug Operation Leads to Two Arrests
The operations began on Saturday, 24th January, when officers from the Guardian Taskforce were conducting patrols in Birmingham city centre. According to police statements, a member of the public approached officers to report suspicious activity involving individuals allegedly attempting to sell drugs.
The team responded immediately, conducting enquiries that led them to Union Street shortly before 6pm. There, they detained two men and recovered what is believed to be a quantity of both Class A and Class B drugs. Both individuals were subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply controlled substances.
Alum Rock Incident Results in Zombie Knife Seizure
In a separate incident the following day, Guardian Taskforce officers were patrolling the Alum Rock area when they observed a group of men fleeing from a vehicle. Officers quickly detained one man while conducting a search of the immediate vicinity.
During their search, police discovered and recovered what has been described as a zombie knife - a particularly dangerous bladed weapon that has been the focus of recent legislative changes. The detained man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and remains in custody while investigations continue.
Project Guardian's Ongoing Mission
The Guardian Taskforce operates under Project Guardian, a dedicated police initiative established specifically to combat knife crime and youth violence across the West Midlands region. The programme employs a multi-faceted approach that includes both plain-clothed operations and high-visibility patrols, alongside positive engagement strategies with young people in communities.
In their official statement regarding the weekend's operations, police representatives said: "A busy shift for our Project Guardian team led to three men being arrested, suspected Class A drugs recovered, and a zombie knife seized."
Police have confirmed that enquiries into both incidents remain ongoing. They have reiterated their commitment to community safety and encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious activity they witness.
Community members can contact West Midlands Police on 101 with any concerns or information, or alternatively reach Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
