Man Nabbed with Rare Thompson Submachine Gun in Birmingham Raid
A 44-year-old man has been charged after police seized a Thompson submachine gun and over 100 rounds of ammo during a dramatic raid in Birmingham.
Anthony Patterson Arrested in Handsworth
Anthony Patterson, of Alexandra Avenue, was arrested earlier this month in Handsworth. He faces charges of possessing a prohibited weapon and ammunition without a certificate. Patterson is set to appear in court today.
West Midlands Police Strike Hard in Operation Target
The raid was part of Operation Target, a force-wide crackdown to smash serious organised crime and wipe illegal guns off the streets.
“During a warrant executed in Handsworth, officers recovered a Thompson submachine gun — a rare and highly dangerous firearm — alongside more than 100 rounds of compatible ammunition. The weapon has been sent for forensic examination,” confirmed West Midlands Police.
Major Blow to Gun Crime Gangs
Detective Inspector Steve Walters, leading the operation, said:
“This is a significant recovery and shows the serious threat posed by illegal firearms in our communities. We are committed to taking action against those who bring weapons and violence onto our streets.”
Operation Target has already resulted in multiple weapons seizures and arrests in recent months, intensifying efforts to combat gun crime across the region.
Police Call for Public Help
The investigation is ongoing. Police urge anyone with information about illegal firearms to contact West Midlands Police or Crimestoppers anonymously today.
