Police to step up patrols ahead of Bonfire Night after disorder last year
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A number of arrests were made after fireworks were launched at people in Radford in 2023
Police in Radford will be stepping up patrols ahead of Bonfire Night to reassure residents after large-scale disorder marred last year’s celebrations.
Extra officers will be on standby after heightened antisocial behaviour saw young people launch fireworks at each other in Midland Way on 5 November 2023.
Around 200 young people gathered in scenes that resulted in multiple 999 calls from residents, including students living in the area.
Thankfully no-one was injured and eight people aged 16-23 were arrested for violent disorder.
To prevent similar incidents arising this year, extra high-visibility patrols will be deployed leading up to and including Bonfire Night.
Ahead of the festivities on Tuesday, neighbourhood officers are handing out leaflets containing safety advice around fireworks.
Police have been sharing firework safety advice ahead of Bonfire Night
The leaflets also contain information about displays that are open to the public, whilst raising awareness of the potential consequences of engaging in disorder.
Sergeant Matt Leask, of the City Central neighbourhood policing team, said:
“Bonfire Night is a fantastic occasion and our number one priority is ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities safely.
“Whilst we’re pleased that the vast majority of people do have fun in a safe way, there is always a risk of a small minority deciding to engage in disorder and heightened anti-social behaviour.
“Sadly, eight arrests were made last year after incidents in Midland Way and we’ll be taking a zero-tolerance approach again this year, with officers taking firm action against anyone behaving irresponsibly.
“Those responsible not only risk causing injury to others, as well as themselves, but they create an atmosphere on the streets where people can feel unsafe.
“As such we’ll be deploying extra high-visibility patrols up to and including Bonfire Night to reassure members of the public and to ensure everyone can have a safe and fun time.”
Used irresponsibly, fireworks can cause damage to property and do significant harm to bystanders. Not only is there a danger from fireworks exploding, they can also pose a serious fire risk as well.
This is why members of the public may only use fireworks on private property, such as their back gardens. Only licensed professionals can use them in public places.
Sergeant Leask said the best place to enjoy Bonfire Night was at licenced community bonfire events. He said:
“We’d always suggest going to a pre-planned, organised display if you’d like to see fireworks, of which there are a number to choose from locally. However, anyone wishing to have fireworks themselves must inform neighbours and generally be considerate with them.
“Crucially, fireworks should never be set off in the street or road. Just one night of carelessness can lead to devastating consequences – both for victims and for the individuals responsible."
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