A huge police raid at a Birmingham petrol station has led to the arrest of seven suspects and the recovery of a terrifying cache of guns, knives, and stun guns.

There were dramatic scenes in the early hours of this morning (7 May) when armed police officers, drone teams, and dog handlers swooped on the Gulf petrol station on Washwood Heath Road at around 2.30am.

Seven men aged in their 20s, 30s and 40s were cuffed and dragged into custody after a major police operation smashed what officers believe was a serious organised criminal hub.

Firearms officers seized multiple guns, two stun guns, shotgun cartridges, and a chilling haul of knives and machetes. All weapons are now being forensically examined as detectives continue their investigation.

Aerial footage showed police flooding the petrol station forecourt and nearby buildings as stunned locals looked on.

Detective Chief Inspector Sara Beech, from the Birmingham Organised Crime and Gangs Team, hailed the raid a major success:

This is one of the biggest warrants we’ve carried out in years. Recovering so many firearms in one go sends a clear message — we will not stop hunting those who bring misery to our communities.

The raid is part of Operation Target, West Midlands Police’s relentless mission to take down serious and organised crime gangs across the region.

A police spokesperson added:

We work around the clock to disrupt and arrest those involved in guns, drugs, money laundering and exploitation.

The seven arrested men remain in custody today.

Anyone with information about illegal firearms or gang activity is urged to call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.