Police officer hit in face by firework as hooligans cause chaos in West Bromwich

A shocking act of public disorder took place on Tuesday in West Bromwich town centre which terrorised members of the public as hooligans threw ignited fireworks which resulted in a police office being struck in the face by a lit device.

Police were called to West Bromwich High Street, and surrounding roads, at around 3.30pm on Tuesday 2o October, where a group of hooligans were causing havoc by throwing fireworks into a crowd.

The appalling act shocked shoppers and pedestrians as the gang of hooligans ran amok and threw lit fireworks into the frightened crowds in the town centre in Sandwell.

The laughing gang of yobs showed no fear when police officers arrived at the scene following calls from alarmed members of the public.

A police spokesperson confirmed that one of the officers at the scene was hit in the face with a firework and was taken to hospital to be treated for his injuries.

Sergeant Mike Bradley from the West Bromwich team, said: “This is a shocking incident and we take this kind of crime very seriously.

“We know how distressing this must have been for local businesses and the people of Sandwell.

“We are currently assessing CCTV to identify those involved and would encourage anyone who filmed the attack or who has information that could help, to get in touch as soon as possible.”

A lady in her 50’s who witnessed the horror, and wishes to remain anonymous, spoke exclusively to I Am Birmingham about the traumatic incident.

“I can’t get the sounds out of my head. Absolutely terrifying. People were panicking and running and I didn’t know which way to turn.

“My thoughts go out to the police officer who was injured. Such a horrible and nasty incident.

“I’m frightened it’ll happen again as schools close for holidays and gangs of kids roam about with fireworks in local parks and streets.

“This horrific act in the town centre is unlikely to be the last. It just gets worse every year around this time of the year as louts mess about with fireworks.

“I wish headteachers set aside a session and highlight fireworks and safety, and parents should also keep an eye on their kids in the days leading into Bonfire Night.”