"Our priority is public safety", say police ahead of protests in Birmingham
Planned protests and counter-protests are planned in Birmingham city centre this weekend.
Police say they're expecting a "significant number" of people in Birmingham city centre tomorrow (20 June) after protests and counter-protests were organised.
A statement on the West Midlands Police website said: "Our priority is public safety; we will facilitate peaceful demonstration but will intervene appropriately should any behaviour constitute criminality.
"Our plans for the protests on Saturday have been put into place based on intelligence, engagement with organisers, local businesses, and community feedback.
"We have worked closely with our local authority and highways colleagues to try and minimise any wider disruption to the city centre, including businesses and the transport network."
Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Burton added: "Our officers police without fear or favour, which means we uphold the law impartially and treat everybody fairly.
"We want to reassure all local communities that we understand how events such as those taking place this weekend could cause genuine fear and anxiety.
"Our primary job is to protect the public from harm, and whilst we are legally obliged to facilitate people's rights to protest, we are clear that any behaviour or speech that crosses into criminality will be dealt with appropriately.
“West Midlands Police is experienced in policing large gatherings, including protests, and significant resources are in place as we work alongside our city partners to ensure local people, businesses, and visitors, can go about their day with minimum disruption.
“Local officers will be on hand to help as usual in the city centre, and I would urge anyone with concerns about this weekend to speak to them.”