British police have reportedly managed to catch one of the suspected perpetrators of several crimes against McDonald’s restaurants in which dozens of mice were released near panicked customers.
“Our position is clear: this is appalling and will not be tolerated. “We will trace and prosecute anyone who commits such acts,” West Midlands Police said in a statement on Wednesday, according to The Independent.
On Monday and Tuesday, police were called to at least two McDonald’s fast food outlets in Birmingham, where people dressed in Palestinian flags had reportedly released boxes full of mice in the country’s colors among panicked customers, images said, that were shared on social networks.
A 32-year-old man was arrested this evening in connection with the incidents, however we continue to appeal for information on the whereabouts of Bilal Hussain, who is also wanted in connection with these offences.
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— Birmingham Police (@BrumPolice) November 1, 2023
The next day, police announced they had arrested a 32-year-old man in the case.
Police also asked for the public’s help in finding 30-year-old Billal Hussain, “who is suspected of being involved in these unacceptable and disturbing incidents,” he said in writing without mincing words.
“These offenses are considered public nuisance offences,” West Midlands Police stressed, saying it was investigating a third similar incident that occurred late on Tuesday to determine whether there was a connection.
Initial reports said these pro-Palestinian activists attacked McDonald’s restaurants after a franchise in Israel appeared to donate meals to Israeli soldiers and security officials, according to The Independent.
“McDonald’s Corporation does not fund or support any government involved in this dispute or any actions taken by our local licensing partners […] were taken independently and without the approval or authorization of McDonald’s,” a spokesperson for the chain reportedly said.