Seven individuals have been arrested following a dramatic police raid at a petrol station in Birmingham, where officers recovered a significant cache of weapons. The early morning operation, which took place around 2:30 am, targeted a complex of businesses near the Gulf Petrol Station on Washwood Heath Road. It forms part of an ongoing crackdown on serious and organised crime in the region.
During the operation, a substantial police presence was deployed, including firearms officers, dog handlers, drone units, and members of the Organised Crime and Gangs Team. The coordinated effort led to the discovery of a variety of dangerous weapons, including two stun guns, shotgun cartridges, knives, and machetes. These items are now being thoroughly examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Photos from the scene reveal forensics officers collecting a number of firearms, including what appears to be a shotgun and a revolver. A damaged black Vauxhall was also spotted at the scene, bearing a noticeable dent and multiple scratches along the front passenger door, suggesting possible involvement in the incident or related activity.
Seven men, ranging in age from their 20s to 40s, were detained on suspicion of various offences. All remain in custody as officers continue to probe the full scope of the case. Investigators have also executed a warrant at a nearby address on Washwood Heath Road. Although the full details of the circumstances surrounding the warrant have not been disclosed, authorities have confirmed it is part of the same investigation.
Multiple cordons were set up around the Gulf Petrol Station and adjoining businesses during the operation. Clayton Road was temporarily closed to traffic, with diversions in place as officers secured the scene and conducted searches.
The scale of the raid highlights the seriousness with which law enforcement is tackling the threat of firearms and organised crime in the area. Authorities have described the weapons seizure as one of the largest of its kind carried out in recent years.
Speaking after the operation, a senior officer from the Organised Crime and Gangs Team stated that this raid marks a significant step in disrupting the activities of those involved in violent and criminal enterprises. She emphasised the commitment to removing illegal weapons from the streets and reducing the harm caused by gangs and organised crime groups.
The raid forms part of Operation Target, an initiative aimed at tackling organised criminality across the West Midlands. The operation focuses on identifying, disrupting, and dismantling criminal networks that pose a danger to the public. It also includes efforts to seize weapons, drugs, and illicit assets while building cases against high-level offenders.
Local residents have expressed concern over the heavy police presence and the discovery of weapons so close to residential and commercial areas. Some have called for increased patrols and ongoing surveillance to ensure public safety in the wake of the raid.
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward, stressing that community support plays a vital role in keeping neighbourhoods safe. The arrests mark a significant development in the ongoing battle against serious crime in Birmingham and signal a firm stance from law enforcement against those who endanger public safety through the use of weapons and violence.
Investigations are expected to continue over the coming days as officers piece together the full scope of the operation and pursue further leads.
