This is in response to a small number of recent incidents where there is evidence that firearms have been used. There have been four alleged incidents, two where people have been slightly injured.

Chief Supt Paul Scarrott, Commander at Thornhill Road police station, Handsworth said:

Enquiries into these recent incidents are a priority for the local area and demonstrate our commitment to doing all we can to protect and reassure our communities and respond to the concerns that they raise.

The increase in visible policing is just one of the actions that we are taking. Other initiatives include direct enforcement around key players in gang criminality. ANPR and key location policing; the continued use of injunction and Anti-Social Behavioural Orders and direct engagement with our communities.

ASBOs and Injunctions have proven to be effective over recent months and have ensured that certain individuals are not able to enter specific zones or areas which we believe can contribute to chaotic gang behaviour.

I would like to remind everyone that this is a very small group of individuals who are taking part in this chaotic criminality.

We have listened to our community feedback and are working in partnership with them to tackle these individuals.

The approaches being taken this weekend have been used in the Lozells and Handsworth areas previously. They have been found to be effective and successful.

Communication with the community continues and the police response for this weekend is in direct response to community concerns. Key community groups have already met several times with West Midlands Police and support groups such as Street Pastors, City United and Young Disciples are all working together.

The Beyond Midnight Bus will be in the area over the weekend and will provide a focal point for young people who wish to go and talk to any of the specialist youth workers who will be available to give advice and guidance.