Arrest and search order in place over suspected Birmingham block party

A man has been arrested and extra search powers put in place over concerns about a potential block party.

The 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance following information about the party in Aston, Birmingham.

Previous block parties, parties that involve residents of a single block or street, had resulted in trouble, West Midlands Police said. It was believed the latest party was being planned for the Staniforth Street and Bagot Street area.

A section 60 order has been issued which allows officers to stop and search people without needing reasonable grounds to do so, and is in force in parts of Aston between 20:30 BST and 03:30 BST.

“Earlier today we arrested a man on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance after we received information about a potential ‘block party’ due to take place in Aston tonight,” police said.

“Previous ‘block parties’ in the area have resulted in disorder and this will not be tolerated in our communities.”

Block parties can cause serious harm to residents, police added.

“The investigation is moving quickly and we’re seeking to identify other individuals who are arranging the party or intending to cause disorder.

“We are examining social media and information and will arrest anyone linked to criminality or planning disorder.”

A high police presence would be in the area this evening to give reassurance to residents, the force said.