Over 60 arrests in May as police step up efforts against youth violence
Patrols across Birmingham, Coventry, and other areas lead to significant weapon seizures
Last updated 20th Jun 2026
West Midlands Police's Guardian Taskforce has continued its efforts against knife crime and youth violence, making over 60 arrests and seizing numerous weapons across the West Midlands in May.
Officers carried out patrols in areas, including Birmingham, Coventry, Solihull, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.
In total, 61 arrests were made, and 74 weapons, including knives, were seized following 427 stop searches.
26 of those arrests were in Birmingham, while 35 others took place across Coventry, Solihull, and the western parts of the force area.
The taskforce's strategy is part of a broader initiative to combat drugs, weapons, and serious youth violence.
During May, the team participated in Sceptre week, a national campaign aimed at reducing knife crime.
Inspector Colin Gallier of the Guardian Taskforce said: "Our teams continue to work incredibly hard to take knives and weapons off the streets. Every knife seized is potentially a life saved. And these knives are the reason why we need to continue to carry out stop and searches."
"We work alongside other teams in local policing areas to take action and also warn against the risks of carrying a weapon. This remains ongoing as we continue our work to reduce incidents,” Gallier added.