The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner has condemned reports that Indian students were targeted by a group conducting night-time patrols in Chelmsley Wood, describing the alleged intimidation as unacceptable.
Simon Foster made the comments in a letter to Solihull Stand Up to Racism following concerns about incidents involving three Indian students who were allegedly harassed by masked men believed to be associated with a group calling itself the Chelmsley Wood Patriots.
The group has denied any involvement in the incidents, dismissing the allegations as “fake news”.
Mr Foster said he shared concerns about the reported events and stressed that nobody should face intimidation or harassment because of their perceived ethnicity, nationality or immigration status.
He emphasised that everyone should be able to go about their daily lives without fear.
The commissioner confirmed that he had raised the matter with the West Midlands Police Chief Constable and Solihull Borough Commander, Chief Superintendent Richard Harris.
Police Investigate Reports of Criminal Damage
The reported incidents are said to have taken place over three consecutive nights. Masked men allegedly intimidated the students before their accommodation was targeted and windows were smashed.
West Midlands Police is investigating the reports.
Police previously confirmed that a teenage boy had been arrested in Chelmsley Wood and that a knife had been recovered following reports of criminal damage.
According to the force, officers responded at approximately 8.40pm on a Wednesday after receiving reports that a window had been smashed at a property in the area.
A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of possessing a bladed article and criminal damage. At the time of the police statement, he remained in custody for questioning.
The Chelmsley Wood Patriots, which has been conducting night-time patrols in the area, has rejected claims linking it to the attacks.
In an online statement, the group questioned the reports alleging that its members had smashed the students’ windows and described the claims as fake news.
Calls for Community Reassurance
In his letter, Mr Foster acknowledged that the incidents had raised broader concerns about public confidence and community relations.
He said he had asked West Midlands Police and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council to consider an appropriate coordinated response.
This could include measures to reassure residents, engagement with local representatives and consideration of concerns raised by community organisations.
Mr Foster also said he would seek assurances that the incidents had been properly reviewed and that any necessary action would be taken.
The reports have prompted renewed calls from community groups for action and greater reassurance for vulnerable residents.
They have described the alleged incidents as deeply concerning and stressed the importance of ensuring that people from all backgrounds can live safely in their communities without fear of harassment or intimidation.
Barden added that the tournament had continued to grow each year, with organisers looking forward to welcoming more participants and visitors to the upcoming event.
The Diwali Cup was first launched in 2024 through a partnership between the Lancashire Cricket Foundation and GIEO Gita UK (Global Inspiration Enlightenment Organisation of the Bhagwad Gita).
The event is funded by GIEO Gita UK and the ECB Cricket Cities Programme. Starting with eight teams in its inaugural year, the tournament expanded to 14 teams in 2025, reflecting its growing popularity and community reach.
As it enters its third year, the Diwali Cup continues to bring people together through cricket, celebrating diversity, cultural heritage and the spirit of Diwali.
