Armed police officers launched a rapid operation in Birmingham city centre on Tuesday morning following alarming reports of a man seen with a gun near the Bullring shopping complex.
Swift Armed Response to City Centre Threat
West Midlands Police were alerted to Edgbaston Street shortly after 9am on Tuesday, 6 January 2026. The location, which runs directly alongside the major Bullring shopping centre, prompted immediate concern for public safety.
Firearms officers were deployed to the scene within minutes of the call. They quickly located and detained a suspect, recovering what was later confirmed to be an imitation firearm, described as an air weapon.
Suspect Charged Following Arrest
The detained man was identified as Jamie Robotham, aged 38 and of no fixed address. He was taken into police custody and subsequently charged with possession of an air weapon in a public place.
Robotham was scheduled to appear before Birmingham Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 7 January to face the charge.
Police Reassure Public After Incident
In a statement, a spokesperson for West Midlands Police acknowledged the distress such an incident can cause. "Although it was an imitation firearm, we understand the concern this may have caused," the force said.
The statement emphasised the ongoing police presence in the city centre, noting: "City centre officers are on duty and there for you 24 hours a day, we have additional patrols taking place this morning – and anyone with concerns should speak to them."
The police reiterated their commitment to removing weapons from the streets, stating they are "working around the clock to take all forms of weapons off the streets." The swift action in this case demonstrates their operational priority towards public safety in busy urban areas.
