Birmingham officers were bolstered by specialist resources including our new police horses, police dogs, our Roads Policing Unit, and a knife arch
BCC Police Insp Scott Taylor says “there’s no need to be nervous” about coming into Birmingham city centre(Image: Amy Gaffney)
More than 20 arrests were made after 150 police officers flooded Birmingham city centre.
The force detained 22 people for a variety of offences and 68 Fixed Penalty Notices were issued in a bid to make the centre as safe as possible for visitors and workers.
Birmingham officers were bolstered by specialist resources including police horses, police dogs, the Roads Policing Unit and a knife arch.
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Operation Advance is a force-wide initiative which runs across the force throughout the year.
Officers spent Tuesday on patrol and tackling anti-social behaviour, aggressive begging, and drug taking in key areas including Birmingham Coach Station, High Street, and Cathedral Square.
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A multi-agency road safety operation (MARSO) also took place in the city against dangerous and uninsured drivers.
The MARSO resulted in two stolen vehicles being recovered, and four seized for having no insurance.
More than a dozen drivers were dealt with for offences like illegally tinted windows, mobile phone use and driving without a seatbelt.
10 e-bikes were also seized and crushed.
Birmingham Police Chief Inspector Amanda Thompson, who led Operation Advance, said: “Yesterday’s intensive policing operation was a success, that has resulted not just in positive results but positive conversations with people living and working in the city – and those visiting, as we work to act on their concerns.
“But it’s important to stress this work is not a one off.
“While we bolstered by resources yesterday, our work in the city centre continues 24 hours a day and includes plain clothes patrols and tactics that might not be as obvious as Operation Advance, but help keep people safe.
“We’re committed to tackling crime in Birmingham, and we look forward to welcoming even more people to the city over the next few weeks to celebrate the festive period.”