The key facts
- Seven people aged 15–26 remain in custody on suspicion of assault, unlawful possession of fireworks and possession of a weapon
- Police used Section 60 powers — stop and search without reasonable suspicion
- The measures follow last year's incidents on 6 November 2025, in which police officers were injured
Arrests in Birmingham city centre
Seven people have been arrested after disorder in Birmingham city centre involving fireworks being set off, BBC News reports. According to the outlet, footage circulated on social media showing a crowd gathered on Corporation Street, with fireworks being set off in close proximity to police officers and their vehicles. The arrests took place in the area of Stevenson Street and Corporation Street after police responded to
Who was arrested and what measures were taken
Those arrested are aged between 15 and 26; they are suspected of assault, unlawful possession of fireworks, and possession of an item that could be used as a weapon. All remain in custody for questioning. West Midlands Police used Section 60 powers, which allow stop and search without the need for reasonable suspicion. Chief Superintendent Tom Boyce stressed:
Links to last year's events
Enhanced patrols had been deployed in advance at key locations to prevent a repeat of last year's violence: on 6 November 2025, Bonfire Night, 21 people were arrested after police officers were attacked with fireworks on Dale End and Staniforth Street. Earlier, on 23 October, police issued a warning that they were prepared to take firm action following the fireworks-related disorder. The current arrests are therefore the first major incident under the enhanced regime introduced in response to the 2025 events.
