Statement released in response to online rumours about Birmingham protests

Last night we saw a large gathering at Bordesley Green following rumours that had spread on social media channels about a potential far-right protest, which did not take place.

What we saw in the Bordesley Green area of Birmingham last night was a large number of local people congregating outside along the roads and nearby businesses.

Officers were in the area to ensure public safety which was our number one priority. We worked with community leaders and businesses before the gathering and our policing approach reflected the wants and needs of the community. On the whole we've received positive feedback on how we dealt with the gathering.

However, we do understand that there were some concerns and we want to reassure people that we were there. Our primary aim was to ensure public safety but we were also there to gather evidence of any offences that were committed. This will form a crucial part of our ongoing investigations to arrest those involved in criminal activity.

There were clearly people at this location with face coverings and some acting in an anti-social manner. We appreciate this will have been extremely intimidating for people and caused some local disruption.

We are now investigating five separate incidents and have this afternoon (6 August) arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of possession of offensive weapon.

We've launched an investigation into a violent disorder that happened at around 8.30pm on Stoney Lane.

A man was assaulted and shortly after a pub window was smashed. After speaking to the licencee, the group were apologetic about a small number of the group who caused the damage and we're told they offered to pay for the repair. We will be making further enquiries to find the suspects.

Following the assault a man in his 50s was treated for injuries which thankfully are believed not to be serious.

It's understood this involved a separate group involved in damaging the window. We are also working hard to find anyone that has been involved in this; and my message to you is that we will find you and we will arrest you.

We will not tolerate violence of this nature and we understand that a video has been circulating.

We've also created an online portal where people can send in any footage they have, this will be crucial in helping bring these people to justice.

If you have any information or videos that can help our investigation upload them to our online portal by clicking the link in this story.

Superintendent Emlyn Richards from Birmingham Police, said: "I appreciate these are incredibly worrying times for communities. This is a time for communities to unite and support each other and we are working together to make sure communities are fully supported and our response is coordinated, proportionate and responsive.

"We are really proud of the strong links we have with communities across Birmingham, and as always, we have officers ready to police and protect the West Midlands.

"My plea to communities is to be extremely mindful of the incredibly harmful spreading of misinformation on social media at the current time, do challenge what you see online, report where appropriate and consider the source of the posts. Always go to trusted sources for your information which includes news outlets and through our social media channels."

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