Officers from Sparkbrook Neighbourhood Police Team have arrested a teenager after a group of youths launched a firework attack at a police van last month.
Officers were called to Balsall Heath Park on Taunton Road, at around 8.30PM on Saturday 22nd October, following reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.
The police van, which had a number of local neighbourhood officers inside, was forced to pull over by Balsall Heath park after it was hit by a volley of fireworks and pelted with eggs.
Officers searched the area following the attack and stopped a boy, aged 16; he was taken home and spoken to in front of his parents and has been referred to the police’s youth offending team.
An investigation was launched and on Wednesday 26th October another boy, aged 16, was arrested on suspicion of public order offences and criminal damage. He was released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Four other teenagers have been spoken to and further enquiries are being made to identify everyone involved.
A temporary dispersal order for the area was put in place over the weekend – between 29th October and 31st October – to deter any further anti-social behaviour.
Sergeant Andrew Lewis, from  Sparkbrook Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “This was totally irresponsible behaviour. I believe that a group of youths specifically targeted the police.
“Fortunately no-one was hurt but we could have so easily been dealing with something far more serious.
“We have been liaising with the local community who wanted us to take action against anti-social behaviour. A temporary dispersal order was put in place which meant that we could move on groups of more than two people.
“I want to make this clear, this type of behaviour is dangerous and unnecessary and we will be taking action against anyone involved.
“If anyone has any information that could help us then please contact me or one of my team.”
Please call WMP on 101 if you have ANY information.