Police to patrol Ramadan markets after Eid trouble
Force and council call for ‘peace and respect’ during holy month
POLICE are to patrol Ramadan markets in Birmingham after violence and disorder flared last year.
The annual pop-up markets in Coventry Road were blasted by Small Heath residents for contributing to anti-social behaviour.
The move will ensure Muslims can celebrate the Islamic month of Ramadan peacefully, West Midlands Police said.
It addressed the ‘pockets of antisocial behaviour’ that disrupted Eid celebrations last year. It will also work with Trading Standards to tackle illegal trading which was suspected last year.
When officers and inspectors tried to check stalls for licences they were forced to retreat after being confronted by a mob. At first the markets were a hit with visitors but now locals criticise them for attracting anti-social behaviour, traffic congestion and mass littering.
Sergeant James Newton, supervisor for Small Heath and Highgate, said the issue would need long-term regulation.
A police document titled ‘Working with the community to ensure a safe Ramadan’ stated: “We have been working with our partners, faith leaders, local businesses and community volunteers to ensure concerns are listened
to around crime, the safety of women, traffic, noise, litter, and antisocial behaviour.
“Last year, there were pockets of anti-social behaviour incidents that disrupted Eid celebrations that will not be tolerated. This year for the first time, we will have dedicated patrols in place throughout the month on Coventry Road working closely with partners from Birmingham City Council including Trading Standards, environmental health and licencing teams.
“They will be dealing with illegal traders, parking problems and community concerns that have been raised.
“As in previous years we will have a policing plan in place for the night before Eid celebrations on Alum Rock Road and Ladypool Road.”
Chief Inspector Haroon Chughtai, from Birmingham Police, added: “Our priority is always to keep families, friends and communities safe.
“We want the community to be able to come together to mark Ramadan
in a safe environment. Antisocial behaviour and causing harm and distress to others will not be tolerated and we will take action against those who come to our city to cause trouble.
“This year will feel different, but we hope the community feel reassured by our increased presence.
“Both West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council want people observing the holy month of Ramadan to be able to do so peacefully and respectfully.”