Youth disorder sparks urgent call for action

Police need to take urgent action against a group of young people who have been causing havoc in part of Birmingham, a councillor has said.

Jordan Phillip, of Birmingham City Council, said the "specific" group were responsible for incidents of crime in the Kings Heath area, including High Street and Kings Heath Park.

The Green Party member said the incidents included vandalising homes or businesses, using knives to threaten locals and "intimidating behaviour" towards people attending evening classes at the All Saints Centre.

Phillip said he previously met with local sergeants to discuss the issue. The BBC has contacted West Midlands Police for a response.

In a letter to police, Phillip, who represents Brandwood and Kings Heath, wrote: "I want to be clear that these are not isolated or low-level incidents of anti-social behaviour.

"Residents are reporting incidents on a weekly basis, and the cumulative impact is materially affecting the safety and quality of life of those who live, work and visit Brandwood and Kings Heath."

When he met with the local sergeants, Phillip said he was told the people involved were well known to the police and arrests had been made previously.

"Despite the volume and severity of the reports, there is a growing perception among residents that the problem remains unaddressed and the situation is continuing unchecked," his letter continued.

"I am concerned that this emboldens those involved and, more seriously, risks the severity of their offences to escalate further."

He said he recognised West Midlands Police were facing significant pressures but was concerned the situation was becoming "an example of the wider erosion of effective neighbourhood policing within our communities".

Phillip encouraged residents to ensure all incidents were reported and called for an urgent meeting with police and other officials to bring the situation under control.

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