Halloween yobs launch fireworks at police and shoppers in a Birmingham city centre 'warzone' as seven are arrested

Crowds fled screaming from Birmingham's New Street on Halloween night after gangs of youths fired rockets at shoppers and police officers; video showed explosions detonating just above people's heads. West Midlands Police imposed a Section 60 order through the early hours, granting officers stop-and-search powers without the need for reasonable suspicion. Seven suspects — the youngest just 15 — face charges including assault, fireworks offences and possession of an offensive weapon.

Police had deployed extra officers after 21 people were arrested during last year's Bonfire Night disorder on the same streets.

Security guards at Grand Central station shut the doors as panicking crowds surged inside, a move witnesses said made the chaos worse.

Ch Supt Tom Boyce warned that misusing fireworks 'is not only dangerous: it's illegal and can lead to fines, arrest and criminal charges.'