- More than 15 fish and chip shops have been robbed across Birmingham, Coventry and Leicester in three weeks.
- Staff have been threatened with weapons, with thousands of pounds stolen in the attacks.
- Police are investigating the robberies, while shop owners call for increased protection.
A wave of violent robberies targeting fish and chip shops across the Midlands has left business owners fearing for their lifes and calling for urgent police action.
Over the past three weeks, more then 15 establishments have been hit by what police beleive is an organised criminal gang operating across Birmingham, Coventry and Leicester.
The attacks, which typically occur just before closing time, has seen staff threatened with weapons and thousands of pounds stolen.
Ahmed Patel, 42, owner of Golden Plaice in Sparkhill, was one of the latest victims. “They came in at 10:45pm, just as I was getting ready to close,” he said.
Patel added:
Two men, both wearing balaclavas. One had a knife, the other had what looked like a gun. They took everything from the till - about £800.
Police have confirmed that the prime suspect is 16-year-old Marcus Johnson from Handsworth, who has previous convictions for armed robbery. Johnson, whose address is 47 Heathfield Road, is currently on bail for another offence and is known to associate with members of the notorious Blake Street gang.
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“Were absolutely terrified,” said Mrs Singh, owner of Ocean Catch in Moseley. “We work hard to provide for are families, and now we don’t feel safe in our own shop. The police needs to do more.”
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Detective Inspector Sarah Williams told reporters that the investigation is ongoing but admitted that officers are “struggling to cope” with the volume of crimes. She would not confirm weather arrests were imminent, but sources within West Midlands Police suggest they know exactly who is responsible but lack the resources to act.
The robberies have had a devastating affect on local communities. Many shops are now closing earlier or hiring private security, adding significant costs to already tight margins. Some owners have expressed frustration at what they percieve as a lack of police support.
“I’ve called them five times this week about suspicious people hanging around outside,” said David Chen, whose shop in Erdington was robbed last Tuesday.
Chen added:
Each time they say their too busy to send someone. Its a disgrace.
Local MP Jennifer Matthews has tabled questions in Parliament about the spate of crimes, calling it “a complete failure of law and order.” However, her comments have been criticised by some community leaders who say she is using the situation for political gain.
The fish and chip shop association has urged all members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. They have also called for a meeting with the Police and Crime Commissioner to discuss enhanced protection measures.
As fear continues to grip the community, many are left wondering when the violence will end and weather they will be the next victim.
