More than 500 weapons seized & 500 arrests made in Sandwell

Hundreds of weapons were seized and hundreds of arrests took place in Sandwell in the last twelve months.

West Midlands Police revealed that they have seized over 500 weapons & made more than 500 arrests in the 12 months up to February 2023. They also recovered millions of pounds worth of drugs.

The police said: “Our local proactive teams have led the way in targeting those suspected of being involved in violence and drug dealing. In the 12 months up to February this year officers recovered more than 500 weapons - including potentially lethal knives and viable guns.

“They have also acted on information and helped shut down over 100 cannabis factories - leading to the destruction of tens of thousands of plants.” Officers also seized an array of Class A and B drugs along with more than £100,000 of cash which is suspected of being linked to crime. In total the teams were involved in almost 520 arrests ranging from possessing weapons or drugs to violent crime.

It’s part of their ongoing work across the Sandwell Local Policing Area to reduce serious crime and help keep the borough safe.

Inspector Gareth Snyman said: “We’re committed to stopping crimes which cause some of the most harm within the borough.

“We’re taking potentially lethal weapons off the streets and breaking up drug networks which can contribute to other criminal behaviour.

“We’re carrying out regular operations as part of our daily work to keep our communities safe and catch those involved in illegal behaviour.

“We will continue to disrupt those we suspect are connected to gangs and crime; and everyone in Sandwell can be assured there will be no let-up in this.”

Anyone with information about illegal or criminal activity can contact them via Live Chat on West Midlands Police website or by calling 101.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to do so anonymously you can ring Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are.