Police teams focusing on issues like vehicle crime, drug crime, and burglaryPolice part of Operation Skybridge(Image: WMP)

Officers have launched a crime blitz in Erdington with officers taking to the streets.

Operation Skybridge is now deployed across Erdington and Stockland Green, with the proactive crime team focussed on tackling issues like vehicle crime, drug crime, and burglary.

The team use a range of tactics including high-visibility and plain-clothed patrols to combat crime, and they’ve already had some great results.

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Last week officers stopped a suspected stolen car. The team seized a machete and arrested a man who was later charged with possession of an offensive weapon and theft of a motor vehicle.

They also made several significant arrests earlier in the week, including a man on suspicion of burglary – after officers had seized suspected stolen items including a large TV and power tools.

Op Skybridge have been joined on their deployments by Erdington and Stockland Green neighbourhood officers.

During their shifts together, the neighbourhood team have responded to burglaries in progress and stopped stolen vehicles alongside Op Skybridge, as well as continuing their positive engagement with the community – reassuring local residents and business owners.

Neighbourhood Inspector Hayley Thompson said: “Local officers are here for you 24 hours a day, all year round, and it’s been great to have the support of Operation Skybridge – who have achieved some significant results already.

“We’re getting positive feedback from local residents who are pleased to officers out and about.

“I’d ask that when you do see our teams out and about – you come and say hello, and share with us any concerns or information you may have.”

Sgt Danny Fulford, from Operation Skybridge, added: “Ultimately Operation Skybridge is based on addressing community concerns, and we hope to achieve that wherever we are deployed.

“We’re grateful for the support of neighbourhood officers as we’ve set work across Erdington, and we’re working hard to keep up the pressure on anyone bringing harm to the local community.

“We’ll keep you updated with our progress and we always welcome feedback from local residents.”

Separately to this activity, another operation in Erdington last week saw five men charged with multiple offences after the County Lines Taskforce carried out drugs warrants.

A large amount of cash, drugs, and weapons were seized as part of that operation.

Operation Fearless also maintains a presence in the area, and after expanding to the Southside area of Birmingham earlier this year, remains committed to working with local officers and partners – addressing concerns around the High Sreet.