West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster has praised the huge impact of Operation Fearless in Erdington as the number of arrests surpasses more than 120.
The PCC funded the £880,000 crime crackdown in January following serious concerns around shoplifting, drug dealing, robbery and the fear of violence in and around Erdington High Street.
However, following a recent visit alongside local MP Paulette Hamilton, the PCC witnessed how things are changing for the better for residents, shoppers and businesses alike.
Since Op Fearless launched on January 7, the dedicated West Midlands Police team has made over 123 arrests, highlighting just how serious the PCC and the force are about tackling the issues that have been raised in the local area.
West Midlands Police have arrested dangerous individuals for robbery, assault, weapons possession, shoplifting, and other serious crimes. Officers have also made more arrests in cases involving child sex offences and domestic kidnap. Dangerous weapons have also been taken off the streets – firearms, knives and more – preventing potential harm.
Speaking from Erdington High Street this past week, Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “The results of Operation Fearless are a testament to the commitment, dedication and hard work of West Midlands Police officers, and the positive impact that can be achieved, when the police work closely with the community.
“I commend the team for their proactive approach and their commitment to listening to and addressing the concerns of local residents. I am pleased to see the investment I have made in Operation Fearless making a positive difference.”
He added: “This operation illustrates the importance of an accessible, visible and reassuring police presence, to making our communities safer. I am pleased to see the positive impact this is having on the quality of people’s lives in Erdington, and I will continue to support the police and the community, in the action being taken to build safer communities for all.”
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, the driving force behind Op Fearless, said: “Looking back on the progress we’ve made in Erdington, it’s hard not to feel a real sense of pride. We’re seeing real positive changes here, and knowing we’re making a real difference in people’s lives – that’s what drives us.
“From the moment we launched Op Fearless, we knew we had a big task ahead. We’ve worked tirelessly, and over 123 arrests since January show real people removed from harming our community.
“The positive feedback we’ve received, from social media to the streets, shows we’re making a real difference. We’ve been out there, day in and day out, listening and responding.”
PCC Simon Foster also heard directly from local traders and residents that the increased police presence and the measures implemented have made a tangible difference, ensuring the High Street is a safe place for people to work, shop and enjoy.
It’s thanks to the collaborative efforts between West Midlands Police, PCC, Birmingham City Council, Erdington Business Improvement District, transport companies and, most importantly, the engaged and supportive residents and high street traders of Erdington, that have made this progress possible.
If you would like to receive similar information about local crime in your area, you can sign up to West Midlands Police’s neighbourhood alerts system, WMNow, to stay connected and informed about what’s happening in your community.
Rebuilding community policing remains at the top of PCC Simon Foster’s agenda. You can view his 12-point plan to prevent and tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in his new Police and Crime Plan 2025-2029.
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