Man Arrested After Threatening Firefighters with Fake Gun at Cannabis Factory Fire
A man has been arrested after firefighters tackling a blaze at a suspected cannabis “factory” in Birmingham were threatened with a fake gun.
Firefighters Face Dangerous Cannabis Farm Blaze
Crews rushed to Gregory Avenue, Weoley Castle, around 7pm on August 30 after smoke was spotted billowing from an electricity supply box. Tracing the mains cable to a nearby terraced house, crews discovered the power had been illegally tapped to run a large-scale cannabis operation.
Inside, officers found some 300 cannabis plants growing. As firefighters battled the fire, a passerby suddenly pointed what appeared to be a handgun at two of them.
Quick-Thinking PCSO Detains Suspect
Local Police Community Support Officer Hannah Moseley was on patrol nearby. She sprang into action, detaining the man until police arrived to make an arrest. The 20-year-old suspect remains in custody, charged with possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
“I went after him, grabbed his arm and told him ‘you’re not bringing a gun on my patch’,” said PCSO Moseley. “He could see I was really angry – I think he was a bit shocked – and I kept hold of him until back-up arrived.”
“I can’t believe anyone would point a gun, real or otherwise, at fire or ambulance crews: these are people who are here to protect and save lives.”
Fire Chief Praises Police and Condemns Threats
Lee Baker, Station Commander at Northfield, thanked the police for their quick response. “These places can be complex and dangerous for our crews, so for them then also to be faced with a man with a fake gun is beyond words,” he said.
“Any threat to, or attack upon, our crews is one too many and will not be tolerated. We work closely with West Midlands Police to bring culprits to justice.”
Inspector Lee Trinder added: “Hannah’s hugely passionate about her job and the communities she serves. I’m not surprised by her actions, but she still deserves lots of credit for her bravery.”
Police enquiries into the cannabis factory are ongoing.
