Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Ramadan: Midlands police attacked during operation to remove illegal stalls

One officer suffered minor injuries during the incident, and several reports of criminal damage resulting from the throwing of other missiles are being investigated

Ramadan: Midlands police attacked during operation to remove illegal stalls

An inquiry is on after West Midlands police officers were assaulted with a bottle as they took part in an operation to crack down on illegal street market stalls during Ramadan.

The incident took place at 01:30 am last Sunday (16) as a large crowd gathered in Small Heath, Birmingham.


Police said the operation followed residents' complaints about roads being blocked and anti-social behaviour.

One officer suffered minor injuries during the incident, and several reports of criminal damage resulting from the throwing of other missiles are being investigated.

Detective chief inspector David Sproson said the hostility faced by officers who were present to "make the community a safer and better place" was "completely unacceptable."

A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said they wanted residents to have a safe Ramadan while complying with the law.

Members of Green Lane Mosque (GLM) condemned the actions of the group.

Imam Mustafa of GLMCC said Ramadan should be a time of worship, charity, and good deeds instead of causing harm and distress to others.

There were incidents of antisocial behaviour, including youth gang fights, littering, noise disturbance, illegal trading, road blockages, unauthorised food outlets without hygiene certification, and young children walking the streets unaccompanied by adults.

The mosque said some young people were misleading their parents by falsely claiming to go to the place of worship, while in fact socialising at the markets. Gangs of young people have been intimidating others, including women, it was reported.

More For You

BTS Jin donation

The society notes that the contribution strengthens its long-running mission

Getty Images

BTS’s Jin marks birthday with £51,500 donation to Busan youth programmes

Highlights

  • Jin donates 100 million won ahead of his birthday
  • Funds support child welfare, scholarships and programmes for young adults leaving care
  • Busan Namgwang Social Welfare Society confirms contribution

Jin’s birthday gesture focuses on youth welfare

BTS member Jin marks his birthday with a charitable contribution, donating £51,500 to the Busan Namgwang Social Welfare Society ahead of 4 December. The organisation, which has worked in child welfare for eight decades, confirms the donation and outlines how it will support vulnerable young people in the region.

Funds directed towards children and young adults

According to the society, the money is allocated to child and youth welfare schemes, including scholarships for underprivileged children and support for adolescents preparing for adulthood. Part of the donation backs a “Self-Reliant Youth Support Programme” for young people leaving childcare institutions, helping them transition to independent living with educational and practical support.

Keep ReadingShow less