Territorial police force for the West Midlands, UK
Footage shows a protest at Reform UK’s Birmingham conference, including a woman being struck and hair pulling. Police are appealing for the involved individuals to come forward as demonstrators are ejected and the event continues amid the wider debate over security and free speech.
Nigel Farage has faced renewed scrutiny over a £5m donation and alleged foreign funding, with two top aides suspended as Channel 4 footage prompts police inquiries. Reform UK confronts internal turmoil as the party prepares for its Birmingham conference and a high-stakes debate over leadership and donor transparency.
An 18-year-old has opened fire at the Chico branch of the Butte County Library, killing two adults and injuring a child. Police moved quickly to detain the suspect within minutes; the library is closed for now as investigators examine the scene and motive remains under investigation.
Trevor Dunkley, 66, has been charged with the murder of Patricia Lashley, who vanished from Hall Street, Dudley, in September 1998. He is remanded into custody to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court as detectives appeal for information to help the Lashley family find closure after nearly 30 years.
Vahid Aberi, 39, has been charged with assisting a foreign intelligence service amid an Iran-linked investigation in Birmingham and Liverpool. He is remanded in custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Authorities say there is no identified direct threat to the public.
The High Court has granted an injunction preventing the unauthorised hanging of flags on or near public highways in Oxfordshire. The ruling, part of ongoing enforcement following safety, trespass and obstruction concerns, names four individuals and underlines persistent flagging activity since August 2025. Breach of the injunction can lead to imprisonment, asset seizure or fines.
A set of recent missing-person stories from multiple outlets highlight ongoing investigations. New appeals are being issued to locate those who are unaccounted for, with families seeking answers and closure after prolonged absences.
A judge has ruled that the confession by Abu Agila Mas’ud Kheir Al-Marimi will form a central part of the Pan Am 103 trial in Washington. Defence lawyers had argued the statement was false and made under duress, but prosecutors say the detail-rich document will be corroborated. Victims’ groups describe the ruling as a step forward in the long fight for justice.
The government has announced planning and enforcement changes to curb vape shops, betting shops and other venues on high streets. Local councils will gain new powers, with planning permission required for vape shops and tighter controls on gambling premises. The measures aim to restore community spaces and address concerns about crime linked to some retailers.