Two individuals, a teenage boy and a man, are facing court after being charged in separate knife-related incidents across Birmingham over the weekend.
Machete Seized in Handsworth Arrest
West Midlands Police's specialist Project Guardian team made the first arrest on Saturday, November 22. Officers from Team 2 spotted a man acting suspiciously in Barn Lane, Handsworth, shortly before 4pm.
A 27-year-old man was subsequently arrested. During the incident, police recovered what was described as a 'large machete'.
The man has been charged with possessing an offensive weapon and possession of cannabis. He has been bailed and is scheduled to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Thursday, December 4.
Lock Knife Found in Kings Norton
The following day, Sunday, November 23, the same police team was called to the Kings Norton area following reports of a disorder involving young people near Shannon Road at around 3.20pm.
Officers attended the scene and, after a brief foot chase, detained a 17-year-old boy. A search led to the recovery of a lock knife.
The teenager was arrested and has since been charged with possessing a bladed article. He has been released on police bail and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, December 9.
Ongoing Fight Against Knife Crime
These back-to-back arrests were conducted by Project Guardian, a dedicated taskforce established by West Midlands Police to tackle youth violence and knife crime. The team employs a range of tactics, from high-visibility patrols to plain-clothed operations.
A police spokesperson reiterated the force's commitment, stating: "If you see something suspicious in your area, get in touch with us by calling 101, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to stay anonymous."
