Increased police stop and search powers after three men shot in Handsworth area of Birmingham

Three men were shot on Birmingham's Hampstead road last night, West Midlands police have said.

The victims, all aged 19, are being treated in hospital. Police say their injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

One of the men was treated at the scene by paramedics, with the other two presenting themselves at hospital with gunshot wounds.

Police have been given section 60 powers to stop and search people in the area without reasonable grounds.

Reports suggest the shooting could have occurred near a wake that was taking place at a nearby church.

Armed police later cordoned off the area, near Handsworth park in Lozells, after the incident just before 6 PM.

Officers remain at the scene as investigations into the events continue.

Det Inspector Matt Underwood, from Force CID, said: “We understand incidents of this nature are shocking and we are thoroughly investigating all lines of enquiry. “We have already spoken with a number of people who were at the scene but we would also urge anyone who can help further with our enquiries to get in touch.”