Watch yobs shoot fireworks at police in West Midlands city centre during night of Halloween mayhem
Scene described as a ‘warzone’
Shocking footage shows mindless yobs launching fireworks at innocent bystanders and police during a night of Halloween carnage in Birmingham city centre.
Crowds of people could be seen running away and screaming in terror after rockets were set off along New Street last night (Sat).
Watch the video
Police were called to the scene after the city centre was turned into a "war zone" by thugs shooting the fireworks from their hands.
Video footage obtained by Birmz Is Grime shows people letting off the rockets in the direction of revellers enjoying a night out in the city.
Officers could also be seen chasing suspects along the street as fireworks exploded around several riot vans.
West Midlands Police said seven people - aged between 15 and 26 - had been arrested for a variety of offences.
One onlooker said: "It was like a warzone. People were just letting off fireworks at each other like it was just a bit of harmless fun.
"I didn't see anyone getting hurt but I would be amazed if nobody was injured during that as fireworks were exploding next to people in the street. It was mayhem."
Other residents expressed their shock and dismay on social media with one person writing: "Absolute morons, somebody could have been killed."
Another added: "That is absolutely crazy, Fair play to that one woman on her phone walking by as if nothing is happening. I would have been running for my life."
A third commented on Facebook: "When will people learn fireworks are not toys. Incredibly dangerous."
One witness wrote on X: "Came out of Digbeth to catch the train at Grand Central, fireworks everywhere. Kids screaming, panic everywhere.
"Security guards locked the doors which heightened the panic. Absolute jokers."
Another put: "The fireworks in birmingham... my heart goes out to those affected if they hit anyone... what a world we live in man, its honestly petrifying can't even enjoy halloween without something kicking off."
A police spokesperson said: "We responded to reports of fireworks being set off in a dangerous manner.
"In total we arrested seven people (aged between 15 and 26) for a number of offences including assault, possession of fireworks and possession of an offensive weapon.
"They all remain in custody for questioning.
"A Section 60 which was in place last night (Sat) and into the early hours of this morning, gave officers extra powers to carry out stop and searches of those suspected of carrying weapons or fireworks.
"The arrests were made in and around Stephenson St and Corporation St."
Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce, from Birmingham Police, added: “We have had a robust plan in place for this weekend to deal with any disorder including section 60 powers which allows us to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds.
“The safety of our communities is paramount, and we'll do all we can to ensure this.
"Misusing fireworks is not only dangerous: it’s illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges.
"We’re working closely with local partners to respond to reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and keep our communities safe.”
West Midlands Police had warned of a zero-tolerance approach to fireworks-related disorder over Halloween and Bonfire Night with extra officers deployed across the city.