A MURDER probe has been launched after a man was fatally attacked by an armed gang earlier today (Saturday, January 28). 

West Midlands Police say the victim, who was in his 20s, was "set upon by a group of males with weapons" in Walsall town centre at around 1.20am.

The victim, who has not been named, was taken to hospital, but was pronounced dead just before 3am.

DI Laura Harrison, leading the investigation, said: “It’s very early in the investigation, but this appears to be a targeted and vicious attack involving a group of men carrying weapons.

“We’re supporting the victim’s family at this awful time, and are working hard to identify those responsible.

“We’ve already recovered CCTV and continue to work at the scene today.”

A Section 60 order, which gives police the power to stop and search people without the need for specific grounds, has been implemented.

Those powers will be in use across Walsall throughout the day.

Insp Jon-Paul Kyffin, of Walsall Police, said: “We’ll have extra officers in Walsall town centre today to offer reassurance.

“I’d ask people planning on travelling into Walsall town centre to think about their journey today as the area around the scene on the High Street is closed while we investigate.”