West Midlands Police have confirmed a second arrest was made during a targeted operation at a pre-planned 'Anti-Zionist' event held in the Moseley area of Birmingham. The police action unfolded throughout Saturday, February 8th, with officers stationed at the venue, The Old Print Works, where the launch of the 'Anti-Zionist Movement' had been advertised on social media.
Dual Arrests in Coordinated Police Action
The operation began earlier in the day with the arrest of a 35-year-old woman in the nearby Kings Heath district. Officers stopped the vehicle she was travelling in at approximately 2:30pm and detained her. She was arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred and was also wanted by the Metropolitan Police in connection with a separate investigation into alleged Public Order Act offences related to speeches and social media posts made in both London and Birmingham between May and October of the previous year. She remains in police custody this evening.
Second Detention Following Public Report
Later in the day, at around 5pm, officers made a second arrest. A 42-year-old man was detained on suspicion of a public order offence. This arrest followed a report from a member of the public who had attended to observe the event and informed police they had been threatened. The man was arrested at the scene outside The Old Print Works venue, where police had maintained a presence throughout the gathering.
Ongoing Criminal Investigation
A criminal investigation continues into a specific social media post that was used to advertise the event. West Midlands Police have emphasised their engagement with community stakeholders throughout the operation. A police spokesman stated: "Before and during today’s operation, we listened to and updated key stakeholders, including members of the local Jewish community." This statement underscores the police's approach to maintaining communication with affected groups during sensitive operations.
The coordinated police response highlights ongoing concerns regarding public order and community relations in the Birmingham area, with authorities actively monitoring events that have the potential to incite racial or religious tensions. The situation remains under active police investigation as both individuals are questioned in custody.
