Firework yob with 'rocket launcher' filmed in Birmingham city centre rampage

A firework yob with a 'rocket launcher' was filmed in chaotic Birmingham city centre street scenes compared to something out of the Star Wars films. The hooded thug in a black 'Darth Vader cape' went on the rampage firing around 50 fireworks in a night of carnage.

People can be seen running for cover in the distance as bright red blasts flash from the end of the makeshift weapon near Aston University. He is seen using the firework 'gun' indiscriminately shooting in all directions. It's unclear if anyone was injured.

Police said groups launched fireworks in the street and from buildings, with some aiming towards police officers and police vehicles around Bagot Street and Staniforth Street. It followed a number of incidents over several nights last week. Police later introduced a dispersal order and put stop and search powers in place to protect the public.

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One social media posted: "Idiots. Where do you even get a firework rocket launcher. Definitely on the Dark Side. He's even dressed like Darth Vader." Another said: "Where did u buy this? That's star wars not fireworks."

A diferrent person added: "These firework wars are happening each year now and they try to outdo each other - someone is going to end up seriously hurt or dead." Another user said it reminded them of Batman, writing: "Birmingham is the UK Gotham."

West Midlands Police said three people were arrested as part of disorder last week. A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, fireworks offences and assaulting an officer, while an 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, violent disorder and fireworks offences.

A 19-year-old man was arrested for assaulting an officer and has been dealt with by community resolution. BirminghamLive has asked for an update in relation to the arrests.

While officers were patrolling in Handsworth they spotted a man selling fireworks from the back of his van on October 31. Further checks revealed his storage licence was expired and they seized both the van and fireworks. Officers were investigating if this is linked to the disorder in Birmingham.

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