Police declare 'major incident' in UK city of Birmingham after multiple stabbings

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Police have declared a "major incident" in the UK city of Birmingham after multiple stabbings on Sunday (NZ time).

"We can confirm that at approximately 12:30am today (Sunday 6 September) we were called to reports of a stabbing in Birmingham city centre," West Midlands police said in a statement.

"A number of other stabbings were reported in the area shortly after.

"We are aware of a number of injured people, but at the moment we are not in a position to say how many or how serious. However, all emergency services are working together at the scene, and making sure that those who are injured receive medical care."

Cordons are in place and the public has been urged to stay away from the area.

According to the BBC, the cordon was close to the area known as the 'Gay Village' in the centre of Birmingham, where many people had been seated at outdoor tables eating and drinking.

"Work is still going on to establish what has happened, and could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything. At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident," a police spokesperson says.

"Our response is ongoing in Birmingham city centre and will be for some time. Cordons are in place, and there are some road closures.

"Your safety is our priority. We are now reviewing our policing across the city and will make any necessary changes. You may see a greater police presence in the area."

Reuters / Newshub.