00:00A warning that this report does contain flashing images of fireworks.
00:05Police have extended Section 60 stop and search powers across Birmingham City Centre, Sparkbrook and the Soho Road
00:13after disorder involving fireworks and concerns about knife crime.
00:17Video from New Street on October 31st showed people running as fireworks were fired across the street
00:25with some appearing to pass close to pedestrians.
00:28In a separate incident in Smallheath police said a machete and fireworks were found in Munt Street.
00:35Section 60 allows officers to stop and search people without needing reasonable grounds
00:41although Westmoreland's police said the powers are not used lightly and their use must be fair and appropriate.
00:47The force said the measures were aimed directly at knife crime
00:51while officers were also prepared to respond to other offences and antisocial behaviour across the city.
00:59High visibility and plain-clothed patrols were deployed supported by firearms officers, police dogs and drone units.
01:07Westmillan's police says its wider Project Guardian operation also includes weapon sweeps,
01:13retailer checks, test purchases and works with schools, colleges and charities.
01:18They added that darker nights can bring changes in offending patterns
01:22which is why operations and patrols are targeted at particular locations and times across Birmingham.
01:29See you next week.
01:29Bye-bye.
