Man Arrested After Pulling Fake Gun on Firefighters in West Midlands
Firefighters Face Threat at Cannabis Factory Blaze
A man was arrested after threatening Northfield firefighters with a fake gun while they tackled a fire at a suspected cannabis factory in Weoley Castle. The incident unfolded at around 7pm on August 30, when crews responded to smoke coming from an electricity supply box on Gregory Avenue.
Firefighters discovered that electricity had been illegally stolen from a terraced house to power a cannabis setup. Inside, 300 cannabis plants were found. As they dealt with the fire, a man walked past and brandished what appeared to be a handgun at two of the crew.
Quick-Thinking PCSO Detains Suspect
Local Police Community Support Officer Hannah Moseley happened to be on patrol nearby. Spotting the tense situation, she moved in fast to detain the man before police arrived.
“I knew a response car would be a few minutes arriving and didn’t want the bloke to get away, so I went after him, grabbed his arm and told him ‘you’re not bringing a gun on my patch’. He could see I was really angry – I think he was a bit shocked – and I kept hold of him until back-up arrived to arrest him,” said PCSO Moseley.
The 20-year-old suspect remains in custody, charged with possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
Fire Chief Praises Police Support
Lee Baker, Station Commander at Northfield Fire Station, praised PCSO Moseley and West Midlands Police for their quick action.
“For our firefighters to face a complex and dangerous cannabis farm fire is tough enough, but to also be threatened with a fake gun is beyond words. Any threat to our crews will not be tolerated. We will work closely with police to bring offenders to justice,” Baker said.
Police Continue Cannabis Factory Probe
West Midlands Police are investigating the illegal cannabis operation further. Inspector Lee Trinder commended PCSO Moseley’s bravery and dedication.
“Hannah’s passionate about her job and the community she serves. Her quick thinking here deserves huge credit,” he said.
This shocking showdown highlights the dangers emergency crews face — even while simply doing their jobs.
