A message from Chief Constable Craig Guildford

"Over the weekend, following the disorder seen across the country, it has been a busy weekend for the force where we have been undertaking business as usual in addition to supporting other forces as part of national contingency plans. This is very much a tried and tested operation and our officers helped colleagues in Nottingham, Liverpool, Rotherham and Tamworth. Thankfully there have been no injuries to our officers reported. This morning we have also sent some resources to Tamworth.

We have been monitoring local and national intelligence since last Thursday and policed a small gathering of protestors yesterday evening in the Solihull area. I would like to thank the local mosque leadership for their support throughout this. 

I recognise that there is a tangible sense of concern amongst some communities across the West Midlands.  To this end I listened to many local mosque members yesterday at our Muslim Association family day at Tally Ho.  My message of support remains unchanged, in so far as, the police will deal with protestors professionally and directly.  These spontaneous events only necessitate a policing response and it is very important that the police are allowed to get on with the job of keeping communities safe on behalf of the public.

At this time, I observe that counter protests, while fully understandable, could serve to unduly stretch national resources. As your Chief Constable I underline this message as I know the gold commander is focusing her resourcing plan upon those who criminally seek to undermine the communities of the West Midlands.

I will be meeting further local community representatives later this afternoon to ensure I can address their ongoing concerns and update them on our plans and operational activity.  These plans are being developed with and alongside our region’s partners and we have all the necessary resources available to keep communities safe.”