The people of Walsall and West Midlands Police staff have marked the end of an era with an event to commemorate the closure of Walsall police station after 50 years.
Ex-officers, members of the local community and the Mayor of Walsall attended the final farewell at Walsall police station today (9 October) before the doors were closed for the last time.
Visitors had the opportunity to explore the history of Walsall police station and take a look at some vintage police cars as well as getting a sneak-peak behind the scenes - including a look at the old cell block.
The building has been the temporary home to a number of staff while Bloxwich police station has been refurbished over recent months. Staff have now moved back in to Bloxwich and the front office is now open to the public from 8am - 10pm, 7 days a week.
Walsall police station will now be sold as part of the overall force estates strategy making savings for the force that will protect policing services in Walsall in the future.
In addition to this, the partnership team and some neighbourhood policing teams have recently moved into Walsall Civic Centre, sharing accommodation with the local authority. This has created an innovative working environment with partners in the heart of the community, enhancing partnership activity and in close proximity to local communities.
Walsall Commander Chief Superintendent Jo Clews said: “The changes to policing in Walsall are part of that bigger picture. While we are sad to leave the building that was ‘home’ for so long, it is exciting to move forward into a new building and deliver the best service possible for local people. The move will also contribute towards substantial savings the force needs to make now and in the years ahead."
Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner Judy Foster - who was also in attendance − said: “Police will be based at the new station in Bloxwich and in the centre of Walsall at the Civic Centre which will ensure a strong police presence in the borough.
“The changes we are making are being invested back into the frontline and are helping to ensure the recruitment of 1,150 new officers, staff and PCSOs."
Officers and staff were also showing their support for Care of Police Survivors charity (COPS) and raising awareness of their cause. COPS charity is dedicated to helping the families of police officers who have lost their lives whilst on duty.
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Walsall police station closing after 50 years in operation
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Man critically ill after stabbing in Sedgley
A man is in a critical condition after being assaulted on Sedgley High Street this evening (Sunday 9 October)
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 6pm and found the 18-year-old with a stab wound to the stomach.
He was airlifted to hospital where his condition is currently described as critical but stable.
An investigation is underway and officers are appealing for anyone who witnessed the attack and has not yet come forward to get in touch as soon as possible.
No arrests have yet been made and the area has been cordoned off pending a forensic examination.
Information can be passed to the police by calling 101 or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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Pub landlady jailed over car sticker plot to avoid speeding fines
A landlady who ran three West Midlands pubs has been jailed for perverting the course of justice by lying over speeding tickets.
Samantha Keegan’s Audi was clocked in May, July and September last year topping 30mph limits - but on each occasion claimed her A4 was parked on her driveway at the time of the offences.
The 33-year-old suggested speed cameras had caught another blue Audi running on cloned plates mirroring her car’s registration number.
And to support her lies Keegan put stickers - including a Union Flag and a GB disc - on the rear bumper and window of her car in an attempt to try and alter its appearance.
However, the car was seized by West Midlands Police following information it was used in a robbery on 31 October last year when takings were stolen from the Holly Bush Inn on Penn Road, Wolverhampton, where Keegan worked.
Keegan, who also ran the Clarendon in Chapel Ash in 2014 and Meadow Lark in Dudley - and who now lives in Gillingham, Dorset − was cleared of involvement, but examination of the car showed not only had the stickers disappeared but other fine details matched those visible on the speed camera images.
Keegan's car without stickers (top left), with stickers (top right) and without stickers (bottom) speeding on Stow Heath Lane, Wolverhampton.
She was interviewed on 28 April and given an opportunity to come clean and pay the fixed penalty notices - but continued the deception by claiming her ex-husband put the stickers on the car although claimed not to remember her former partner’s name!
Investigators released her while more enquiries were carried out.
Her ex-husband was traced and signed a statement denying knowledge of the Audi ever being emblazoned with stickers - and when officers checked Keegan’s phone they found incriminating text messages sent to her new partner.
One read “Yet another speeding ticket I’m gonna have to take the rap for…thanks very much" while another stated “I can’t keep blagging my way out of these, I could end up in serious trouble if I’m found out."
She also told officers her car was outside her new Dorset address on 22 September when an Audi was clocked at 37mph along Stow Heath Lane in Wolverhampton.
But officers uncovered camera evidence showing it being driven on West Midlands roads between 7 September and 6 October before heading to Dorset on the M5 on 7 October.
In the face of mounting evidence she finally admitted perverting the course of justice - but by that stage it was too late to avoid a court appearance.
And on Thursday (6 Oct) at Birmingham Crown Court a judge jailed her for eight months.
PC Steve Jevons from the force’s Camera Enforcement Unit, said: “We suspect Keegan was trying to protect her boyfriend: he was a banned driver, and serving a suspended prison term, and would likely have faced jail had evidence emerged he was behind the wheel.
“She clearly thought she could get the speeding fines cancelled by lying…but she dug a deeper and deeper hole, wasting increasing police time and eventually has ended up behind bars for trying to avoid justice.
“Drivers need to think long and hard about the potential consequences of lying to avoid a speeding fine and licence points. These are not ‘little white lies’…courts take a dim view of people trying to deceive the authorities and there is a very real risk offenders will be jailed."
Keegan’s Audi A4 was caught speeding on 25 May on the A34 Walsall Road in Landywood and on 1 July travelling at 43mph in a 30-zone on Wolverhampton Road, Kidderminster.
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Appeal after man dies in Stourbridge collision
Police are appealing for witnesses after a pedestrian lost his life in a Stourbridge collision yesterday (9 October).
Officers were called to High Street, Amblecote near to Vicarage Road at around 2.35pm.
The 35-year-old man was treated at the scene by paramedics but despite the best efforts of medical staff he died in hospital later that day.
Sergeant Alan Wood, from the Regional Collision Investigation Unit, said: “The driver of the car stopped at the scene and is assisting officers with the investigation.
“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed what happened or has any information that could help with the investigation to contact us.”
Specialist officers are in contact with the man’s family. He is not being named at this stage.
The road was closed for several hours whilst specialist officers conducted an examination of the scene.
Anyone who saw what happened is asked to come forward and contact Sergeant Wood or his team by emailing FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or calling 101.
Alternatively people can leave information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers the independent charity on 0800 555 111.
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Family pay tribute to Tipton teenager who died at the weekend
The family of a teenager who died in suspicious circumstances in Erdington over the weekend have paid tribute to their ’vibrant’ son.
Kaydel Williams, aged 19, from Tipton was found in Hunton Road with serious injuries at around 8.55pm on 7 October following a call from the ambulance service reporting a possible hit-and-run.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Kaydel was pronounced dead at the scene and a post mortem revealed that the teenager died from head and chest injuries.
Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances that led to Kaydel’s death as it is believed that the teenager had been bundled into a car at The Gardens, Erdington by a group of men some five minutes earlier at around 8.50pm.
A 22-year-old man was also assaulted during the disorder and sustained minor injuries.
The Williams family has paid tribute to the popular teenager, they said: " Kaydel was a vibrant soul and a humorous character, who was well mannered, caring and highly regarded by others. He was always giving and did it with a smile. Kaydel was a loving individual with such great potential, a beautiful soul gone too soon. He will be missed deeply by family and friends. Always in our hearts and thoughts, we love you.”
Detective Inspector Warren Hines, the senior investigating officer for the case, said: "Our investigations are progressing but we still need people to come forward with information so that we can establish what happened to Kaydel.
"I believe that two vehicles were involved in the initial report of disorder at The Gardens; a blue Mercedes which has been recovered and a silver VW Passat which remains outstanding.
"Myself and my team are committed to finding out exactly how Kaydel received his fatal injuries so it is imperative that people who were in the area of The Gardens and Hunton Road come forward and tell me what they know.
"I am keeping an open mind about what happened on Friday night and I am appealing directly to the people in the cars to do the right thing and come forward.
"A specialist officer has been supporting Kaydel’s family and our thoughts remain firmly with them at this sad time."
Anyone with information is urged to call DI Warren Hines and his team by calling 101. Alternatively people can leave information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers the independent charity on 0800 555 111.
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Police thanked for donation to Birmingham homeless charity
The founder of a charity has thanked police for their support in feeding the UK’s second city homeless community.
Thousands of tasty sandwiches, fresh fruits, high protein yoghurts and some sweet treats were handed over to Birmingham Homeless Outreach (BHO) last week with more set to follow in the coming months, at the start of what’s set to be a long-term collaboration.
The food - worth thousands of pounds - was being served up to officers taking part in the 24 hour security operation for the Conservative party conference at the International Convention Centre. All had been paid for by the party.
A disused bank on Broad Street was turned into a rest centre for cops and security guards who were protecting the site and the city.
At the end of each day, anything which had not been eaten was passed to charity workers who would then serve dozens of homeless people as part of their daily food service.
Rik James, who founded of the group in 2010, welcomed the valuable addition which meant more people could be fed.
"This donation means a lot," said Rik.
"We’re out here every day of the year feeding homeless people. We already have five local bakers giving us food which hasn’t been bought, but we can now feed even more thanks to the police."
The 52-year-old, originally from Bootle in Merseyside, lived rough on the streets of Liverpool for three years before a man told him to "dust himself down and get back up". He then moved to Manchester for 14 years before coming to Birmingham to set up BHO.
"I formed the charity in 2010. I knew how hard it was to find organisations that would feed me. I was a really successful businessman before I lost everything and made homeless. And suddenly, there I was being treated like the scum of the earth.
"So when I came to Birmingham to be closer to family I formed one of the first outreach teams in the city.
Rik and his charity also supports the estimated 1,500 homeless people in Birmingham to find accommodation and work.
The unique arrangement between West Midlands Police and BHO was the brainchild of Keiron Ronan who oversees the logistics of feeding officers on all major operations. He wanted to see food which otherwise be wasted put to better use and set about finding a local worthy cause.
"I mentioned to my mum what I wanted to do and she just so happened to go to church with one of BHO’s workers," said Keiron.
"I met with Rik and his team and did a couple of shifts with them feeding Birmingham’s homeless population. They do remarkable things and I knew we could make a real difference with donations like this. This was the first time we’ve handed over unused food but we’ll be doing it for every future operation where catering is provided."
In addition to food, the force is now looking at other ways to support the Hockley based charity.
West Midlands Police chaplain, Reverend John Butcher will hold talks with Rik to see how his church, also based in Hockley, can provide more meaningful long-term support.
Rev Butcher said: "Supporting people in need is the cornerstone of all faiths. It’s also the foundation upon which British policing is built. In fact West Midlands Police’s motto is ’preventing crime, protecting the public and helping those in need.’
"I look forward to establishing what more the force and my congregation can do to help BHO."
In the last 18 months BHO have arranged accommodation for 180 homeless people.
"Everyone falls on hard times, everyone has the chance of falling into homelessness," said Rik.
"Being homeless is a lonely existence. When it is all dark and quiet you don’t know if you will ever see the sun come up again.
"If you see a homeless person give them five minutes of your time and buy them a coffee, give them a cigarette have a chat with them, this means more to people than you think."
West Midlands Police has a long history of working with groups supporting and representing homeless people including Big Issue and Sifa Fireside.
Last year a West Midlands PC was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s New Year Honours for his work with homeless people. Ian Northcott (now retired) set up the Socks and Chocs charity in 2010 to distribute sleeping bags, gloves, socks and chocolate treats - all things those he helped said they missed and made them "feel good again."
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Teenager charged after Sedgley stabbing
A 14-year-old boy will appear in court today (Tuesday 11 October) charged with wounding with intent after a man suffered life threatening injuries in Sedgley on Sunday.
The 18-year-old victim was found with a stab wound to his stomach in the High Street at around 6pm. His condition has since improved and he is recovering well in hospital.
The teenager, who was arrested several hours later at his home address, is due at Dudley Magistrates Court this morning.
A 15-year-old boy also arrested in connection with the incident has been released without charge.
Officers are continuing to appeal for anyone who has information to assist the investigation to contact them on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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It’s time to shine at the West Midlands Police Diamond awards
Today West Midlands Police launches the fifth annual Diamond Awards for officers and staff who go above and beyond to prevent crime, protect the public and help those in need.
Last year’s awards were a huge success with nominations flooding in from across the length and breadth of the force culminating at an awards ceremony last March.
This year the force is looking to build on this success, as once again anyone can make a nomination for police officers, police staff, PCSOs or special constables as well as members of the public across a range of ten categories – including a brand new category reflecting the force’s values.
Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “I am immensely proud to be able to launch the 2016/17 Diamond Awards today as we once again look to highlight the very best of the best across the force.
“It’s been five years since we introduced these awards and they have grown to capture the imagination of officers and staff as a highlight of the policing calendar.
“Over the years we have recognised hundreds of our people who have gone above and beyond in their duty to serve and protect our communities. I urge the public to nominate a member of the police family that deserves to be recognised.”
The categories are:
• Working In Partnership
• Our Values in Action
• Driving Diversity
• Creativity And Innovation
• The Andrew Le Comte Memorial Cup for Inspirational Leadership
• Putting The Public First
• Student Officer Of The Year
• Team Of The Year
• Employee Of The Year (Four awards - Police Officer, Special Constable, PCSO and the Joyce Campbell Cup for Police Staff)
• The Bob Jones Community ‘Thank You’ Award
In addition a special ‘Outstanding Achievement Award’ will be presented by the Chief Constable to a shortlisted finalist during the awards ceremony.
Nominations are now open – please click here for the nomination information form.
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Appeal after Egyptian gold stolen in Solihull burglary
Officers are appealing for information after thousands of pounds worth of Egyptian gold was stolen during a burglary in Solihull on Sunday (9 October).
The suspects forced open the front door of the property on Nichols Close to gain access to the house sometime between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.
A large amount of unusual jewellery including rings, bangles, chains and a set of gold coins were stolen during the raid as well as children’s gold jewellery and cash in various currencies.
(Pictured above: some of the stolen items)
All of the stolen jewellery is hallmarked 18-Carat Egyptian gold; the items are unusual and we would urge people to keep an eye out for the distinctive items.
Investigating Officer PC Lisa Bird said: “The stolen jewellery amounts to thousands of pounds and we are determined to do all we can to get it back and arrest those responsible.
“If you have any information about the robbery, suspect who may be responsible, or believe you’ve been offered any of the stolen items for sale, please do the right thing and contact us as soon as possible."
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Lisa Bird by emailing sh.investigationteam@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crime number 20SH/197804N/16
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Third man remanded in prison on burglary conspiracy charge
A man suspected of carrying out a series of distraction burglaries at pensioners’ homes has been remanded in prison by magistrates today.
Francis Maughan, aged 31 and from London, appeared at court in Birmingham this morning (11 October) charged with conspiracy to commit burglary and six counts of theft from a person.
It is alleged he tricked his way into addresses in south Birmingham − including those of women aged 90 and 101 − before stealing cash and valuables.
He also faces one count of theft from a motor vehicle after several thousand pounds was stolen from an 81-year-old man’s car in Winney Road, Selly Oak, on 6 September.
A 46-year-old man and 29-year-old woman also charged with conspiracy to commit burglary in connection with the distraction burglaries were remanded into prison last week (7 October).
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Two men jailed following impromptu street race which left a woman seriously injured
Two Birmingham men, who raced their cars through streets in Birmingham, before crashing into a car and seriously injuring a woman driver, have been jailed.
Bashir Ahmadzai (22) from Rotton Park Road, Edgbaston admitted racing his VW Golf Gti along Bristol Road South against an Audi A3 Turbo, driven by twenty-six year old Lee Round from Lark Close, Kings Heath.
The impromptu street race took place on November 13, 2015 and is believed to have reached speeds of over 80mph. Both drivers were seen weaving through traffic in Selly Oak before speeding off down Bristol Road South towards Bournville Lane.
A 52-year-old woman, driving a Peugeot estate, was pulling out of Cob Lane, when she was struck by Ahmadzai’s car. Lee Round then collided with the back of the VW causing catastrophic damage to all three vehicles.
The injured driver sustained multiple injuries and was in a coma for three weeks, and spent five months in hospital recovering from the collision.
Ahmadzai, who is self-employed, pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and no insurance and was today jailed for two years at Birmingham Crown Court and disqualified from driving for three years.
Round, a mechanic, admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving and was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment and disqualified for two years and ten months.
Both will also have to take an extended driving test before they allowed back on the roads.
Sergeant Chris Ridge from the force’s collision investigation unit, said: “Not only has this collision changed the life of the driver and her family, but also the lives of Ahmadzai and Round who are facing a considerable time behind bars. The ripple effect of their actions will also affect the lives of their own families. They have lost their liberty and employment and therefore their families will face financial hardship.
The court heard in a victim impact statement that the driver of the Peugeot sustained serious life changing injuries, from which she is making slow but steady progress.
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Celebrating 50 years of police diversity in West Midlands – memories of first black and Asian officers
They were the force’s first black and Asian officers and their legacy has paved the way for a more diverse police force in the West Midlands.
West Midlands Police was a pioneer in recruiting from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities during the late 1960s.
Now as part of Black History Month the force is celebrating 50 years since the first BME officer signed-up and the 20th anniversary of the West Midlands Black & Asian Police Association (BAPA) – one of the longest established in the country.
The “trailblazing” officers and their families have marked the milestone by recalling their early memories on the beat…and some of the challenges faced.
And they’ve also backed the force’s pledge and BAPA’s push to recruit more staff from diverse communities.
Almost nine per cent of officers in West Midlands Police are from BME communities – the second highest representation in UK policing – and the force has introduced a Positive Action programme aimed at attracting, developing and retaining BME staff.
Mohammed Yusuf Daar (pic above on duty and below now) became Britain’s first BME officer in spring 1966 when he joined as a PC with Coventry City Police.
He’d previously been with the Tanzania police force and upon joining affectionately became known as Joe: a translation of his name in English.
Mr Daar, now aged 74, said: "I was already experienced as an officer and wanted to join the force in the West Midlands. I didn’t really think about the impact or that I was making history in becoming the force’s first Asian officer.
"Everyone was very welcoming and members of the public would come over and shake my hand. I did not encounter any racism.
"I remember one occasion not long after I started when a man came to me in Coventry city centre and to say his wife had been taken ill…I helped call for an ambulance. He came back the next day to thank me."
Mr Daar, who inspired his brother Yunus to join the police, added: "We feel lucky we opened the doors for others to join. It’s encouraging to see more people from ethnic groups being part of the police now."
First black officer
Ralph Ramadhar became the first black officer in Birmingham after also joining West Midlands Police in 1966.
He overcame initial racism from a pocket of the community before promoting to sergeant; he left the force in 1977 after 11 years when he returned to his native Trinidad. Sadly he passed away just a decade later aged 49.
Ralph had arrived in the UK with his wife Nell (pictured) – a trainee nurse – and successfully applied to become a police officer after seeing an advertisement.
The father-of-two won over the public through his community work, including supporting young people and involvement with his local church.
His skills as a police officer also shone through…and the adage that an officer is never truly off duty was evident when he arrested a criminal while on holiday in Great Yarmouth!
Nell said: "He was very proactive and wanted to improve himself. He faced some difficulties: there were incidents of racism and slogans were painted outside our house saying ’no black police men wanted.’
"Despite the challenges Ralph and ourselves faced we were supported by the police and the local church to overcome this situation.
"Ralph joined the police force to be an officer first and foremost and had no idea he would be the first black officer. Colour did not concern him. He knew there would be challenges…his primary concern was serving the community he loved.
"He was a big advocate of recruitment; I think he would believe there is more to do but he would be proud there are more ethnic officers now."
Another of the successful first recruits was Ramesh Kumar (pic below on police bike), who joined as a police cadet in 1970 and went on to become a fully-fledged officer and picking up a Queen’s Police Medal for his work.
The 62 year-old, who spent a long period as a traffic cop in the Black Country, said: "Right at the beginning of my career I was involved in major enquiries as I was able to communicate with some communities due to my background and language skills.
"It was hard and challenging being an Asian officer as the police service and community were not used to it.
"There was some racism in the force and outside on the streets but the vast majority were very supportive. It was just a bit of cultural ignorance."
Ramesh – a founder member of BAPA – added: "We are trying to make things better for staff…BAPA plays an important role as a support service and to raise awareness of what needs to be done.
"Things have improved and more black and Asian staff have been recruited…but more is still needed."
Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “The first BME officers and staff to join West Midlands Police were trailblazers for those that have followed.
“As we recruit 1,150 new officers, staff and PCSOs I am determined to make the force look more like the communities it serves."
Recruitment
West Midlands Police is set to reopen recruitment for PCs this autumn. Anyone considering a career as a police officer can see further information, and register their interest with the force.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “It is great news that we again have an opportunity to welcome a new group of recruits into West Midlands Police, which will help us to provide an even better service by bringing fresh ideas into our workforce, directly from the communities we serve.
“The area we police is richly diverse, with around 30 per cent of local people coming from ethnic minority backgrounds. We want our force to reflect that and it is key that communities know that we have a strong commitment to equality and diversity. We are hopeful that the next phase of recruitment helps to further our efforts in making West Midlands Police representative of the many different cultures it serves."
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Three police officers charged over Kingsley Burrell inquest evidence
Three serving West Midlands Police officers have been charged today (Wednesday 12 October) with perjury and perverting the course of justice.
The charges are in connection with evidence given during the inquest into the death of Kingsley Burrell. After investigation by the IPCC, the matter was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions who has authorised the charges.
Constables Paul Adey (36), Mark Fannon (45) and Paul Greenfield (50), based at Birmingham West and Central, will appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court on 31 October.
The three officers have been suspended today following these charges.
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Birmingham man convicted on terror charges
A Birmingham man who was stopped at Dover trying to travel to Syria to engage in terrorism has today (Thursday 13 October) been convicted.
Anas Abdalla (above) was found guilty at the Old Bailey in London following an almost six week trial. A second man, Gabriel Rasmus (below) pleaded guilty to the charges at an earlier hearing.
The court heard how Rasmus, 29, from Chain Walk, Lozells and Anas Abdalla, 26, of Fox Hollies Road, Acocks Green planned their travel to Syria in a bid to join Islamist rebel forces.
An extensive surveillance and undercover operation provided vital information on the groups plans.
The two were arrested at 7.45am on Friday 3 April 2015 at the Port of Dover in Kent; a third man – Mahamuud Diini - was arrested and charged but was found not guilty earlier this year.
Their meticulous plans for travel were evidenced by several purchases of outdoor equipment by Rasmus - walking boots, night scope telescope, a compass, head torch, a route planner, vitamins and thermal drink flask.
They had travelled to London in a taxi, meeting up with the lorry driver in a lay-by before hiding in the back of the lorry in an attempt to smuggle themselves out of the country.
Their plan was foiled when detectives instructed ports officers to check the lorry, they were found lying on the floor dressed in winter coats and each had a rucksack.
Following the arrests, searches at their homes also revealed extremist ideological material on computers and USB’s as well as evidence of a number of online searches they had undertaken to help them plan.
Counter terrorism detectives believe that once in Europe their plan was to travel through Albania or Bulgaria to Greece, Turkey and into Syria.
ACC Marcus Beale, Counter Terrorism Lead for West Midlands Police, said: “Extensive surveillance and undercover activity was used as part of this investigation while the men were planning to travel to Syria and join ISIS.
“They were unknowingly being monitored by our officers who swooped as they attempted to leave the port. We will use every lawful technique and power available to us to prevent people from travelling to Syria.
“If anyone is concerned that a friend or family member is thinking of travelling to Syria it is very important that they tell us as soon as possible. Police and other agencies can offer support to help safeguard those who are vulnerable to radicalisers.
“The sooner we can intervene, the better chance we have of preventing people from becoming embroiled in the conflict and facing potential prosecution."
Rasmus and Abdalla will be sentenced at the Old Bailey at a future date.
Anyone concerned about someone travelling to, or returning from, Syria or another conflict zone or is worried about someone showing signs of being radicalised should contact their local police on 101 or visit www.preventtragedies.co.uk to access relevant support and advice.
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Police step up search for missing man in Birmingham
Police are urgently searching for a man who has been missing in Birmingham since yesterday (Wednesday 12 October)
Muhammed Khedri Maayoufi, aged 61, is visiting family from Tunisia, but has left the address and was last seen near Five Ways around 6pm.
Police Constable Marianka Bowles, from the force’s Locate Team, said: “Mr Maayoufi has dementia and is likely to get confused so we are now extremely concerned for his welfare.
“His family are desperate to find him and we would urge anyone who has seen him to get in touch with us immediately."
Mr Maayoufi is described as Arabic appearance, clean shaven, bald, possibly wearing the same hat as pictured and the same green coat, grey tracksuit bottoms and black leather slippers. He walks slowly and could be drawn to cafes.
Anyone with information should call the Locate Team on 101.
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Police release images following Coventry disorder
Police have released the images of five men suspected of being involved in a disorder shortly before a Coventry City football match.
It is believed that trouble broke out between Coventry City and Northampton Town fans near to R.A.O.B Social Club, Foleshill Road, Coventry at around 2.45pm on 27 August.
A 62-year-old man was assaulted and needed hospital treatment for a head injury.
Following the attack officers have been trawling CCTV and continuing enquiries and have released CCTV images of men they want to trace in connection with the disorder.
PC Craig Harding, from the force’s football unit, said: "This was a particularly nasty assault and we are determined to bring to justice all those people involved in the disorder.
"We are sure that someone knows who these people are and we are appealing to people to come forward with a name.
"We would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to the men in the images to do the right thing and come forward as it is only a matter of time before we come knocking at your door."
A further six men have been arrested and bailed while enquiries are on-going.
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Detectives name two suspects in hunt for cruel distraction thieves
Police hunting two cruel conmen who posed as council staff to steal savings from inside a pensioner’s home have named men they believe are responsible.
The two suspects struck in Baldwin Street, Bilston, at around 5.30pm on 25 August after claiming they’d been sent to carry out building work.
It’s understood the 79-year-old victim let the men into her home and later discovered two handbags, containing several hundred pounds, had been swiped from a sofa.
Detectives have identified 20-year-old Johnny Connors (pictured right) and 22-year-old Phillip Purcell – both of no fixed address and with links to the travelling community – as people they would like to speak to over the burglary.
Detective Constable Paul Jones from Wolverhampton Police CID’s Investigation Team, said: “Connors and Purcell have been identified as suspects. We believe they’ve conned a vulnerable pensioner…they do not deserve any protection and I would urge anyone who has information on their whereabouts to get in touch.
“Distraction offences of this type are truly appalling: an elderly lady, one who struggles to get around, has been deliberately targeted and we’re determined to get justice for her.”
Purcell is believed to have had his hair closely cropped since the offence.
Anyone with information is asked to call DC 2282 Paul Jones at West Midlands Police on the 101 number - quoting crime number WV/165650A/16 - or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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Appeal after teenager violently attacked in Oldbury
Officers are appealing for witnesses after a 16-year-old boy was attacked on his way home in Oldbury last week.
The teenager, who has autism, was walking down Brookfields Road on Wednesday 5 October at 00.30am when he was approached by a group of men in a black Vauxhall Corsa.
It’s believed the car was a 2005/2006 model with tinted windows.
The group asked him if he wanted drugs and when he said no, the men, all described as of Asian appearance, got out of the car.
He attempted to run off but ended up falling over a short distance away. He was assaulted, punched and kicked several times before being stabbed twice in the back.
Detective Constable Cal Sanders, from West Bromwich police station, said: “This is a shocking and unprovoked assault on a vulnerable boy and we are providing support to him and his family.
“One of the stab wounds was to the lower centre of his back which if deeper could have severed his spine resulting in devastating consequences.
“I’m looking for anyone who witnessed this incident, recognises the vehicle or has any information to contact police at the earliest possible opportunity.”
DC Sanders added: “We’re taking this extremely seriously and patrols in the area have been increased as a result of the assault.
“If anyone has any concerns I would urge them to get in touch.”
If you have any information then please contact DC Cal Sanders by emailing Sanders_7044@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
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Man charged over robbery plot on murder victim
The father of a man serving life in jail for killing a Black Country man has been charged with conspiring to rob the murder victim.
Colin Raymond Cooke, aged 61 from Wilford Road in West Bromwich, faces one count of conspiracy to commit robbery and a second count of assisting an offender by disposing of evidence and harbouring his son.
Cooke will appear before magistrates in Walsall today (Saturday 15 Oct) accused of plotting to rob 64-year-old Ronald Smith.
Mr Smith was stabbed to death on the doorstep of his Cottage Walk home on 6 May last year by 34-year-old Paul Cooke.
He was jailed last month for a minimum of 28-and-a-half years having been convicted of the killing − and on Thursday (13 Oct) Cooke Snr was arrested on suspicion of being involved in a scheme to rob Mr Smith at his home.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Ian Iliffe, said: “The investigation into the death of Ronald Smith and those who assisted or conspired to rob him is continuing with vigour. Further arrests can be expected in the coming weeks.
"Anyone with information about who was involved in the attack on Ronald Smith can contact me on 101 or leave a name with Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
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Murder probe launched after man dies in Dudley knife attack
A man has died after being stabbed in the stomach during an attack in Brierley Hill.
Police and paramedics were called to the High Street at around 4.45pm following reports a man had been attacked with a knife outside the Dixi Chicken diner.
The man, believed to be 24-years-old, was rushed to hospital in a critical condition but later pronounced dead; specially-trained officers are currently supporting the man’s family.
The High Street has been cordoned off for forensic examination while detectives are also holding another scene in a nearby wooded area.
West Midlands Police Detective Inspector Jim Munro, said: “Clearly it is early days in the investigation but we strongly suspect this was a targeted attack and that the two people involved may have known each other.
“We have spoken to some witnesses already but I’m sure there are many more people who saw what happened, or saw the offender running away, and have not yet spoken to police.
“I’d urge them to call us now on the 101 number. Anyone with information who would prefer to speak to someone anonymously can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”
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