Four arrests following disorder during Birmingham Ramadan market investigation on Coventry Road

West Midlands Police have arrested four people after disorder broke out in Birmingham on Saturday night (15 April).

Officers worked on a joint operation with Birmingham City Council tackling illegal street trading at a Ramadan market on Coventry Road in Small Heath, however disorder broke out resulting in missiles being thrown.

One officer was struck by a bottle, but fortunately was not seriously injured, and three vehicles were damaged. Two council officials were also kicked and spat at. Two 16-year-old boys and a 42-year-old man have been arrested for violent disorder and a 23-year-old man has been arrested for assaulting a police officer.

They remain in custody as police enquiries continue. Following the disorder, police said they have continued evening patrols accompanied by religious leaders and community members to reassure local residents and traders, and ensure that Ramadan celebrations pass peacefully and safely.

Inspector Gary Everitt said: “We are aware that the violence on Saturday evening involved a small group of people and I’d like to thank the wider community for their continued support.

“It’s been testament to the strong relationships that we have with the local community, businesses and mosques that we have been able to continue work closely together on joint patrols offering reassurance to families who are peacefully celebrating Ramadan.”