Dozens Arrested After Violent Disorder in Belfast and Across England; Police Warn of More Violence
London: Several arrests were made following violent disorder in Belfast and various towns and cities in England, with police warning of potential further violence in the coming days.
Anti-immigration demonstrators clashed with counter-protesters in multiple locations, leading to numerous injuries among police officers. Authorities have pledged more arrests as investigations continue.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed strong support for law enforcement to act against extremists “sowing hate” and intimidating communities. During a press conference, Starmer denounced the violence as “far-right thuggery” and warned participants that they would regret their actions. He condemned the incidents as criminal and racist, citing “Nazi salutes,” “marauding gangs,” and attacks against Muslims and other minorities. Starmer assured that convictions would follow and urged the public to denounce such violence.
Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill emphasised the need for communities to stay united against hate and division, highlighting Belfast’s progress as an inclusive city due to years of cross-community efforts.
The recent unrest began on Tuesday in Southport, Merseyside, following a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club that resulted in the deaths of three girls. Violent incidents occurred in Hull, Liverpool, Stoke-on-Trent, Nottingham, Bristol, Manchester, Blackpool, and Belfast, where several police officers were injured.
This wave of violence followed a riot in Sunderland on Friday evening. The far right faced widespread condemnation from MPs across the political spectrum after earlier disorder in London, Manchester, Southport, and Hartlepool.
Police have made arrests nationwide and are reviewing CCTV, social media, and body-worn camera footage to identify more suspects. Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, reiterated that violence is unacceptable and called for peaceful expression of views.
In Belfast, a social media post had called for protests at City Hall, marching to the Belfast Islamic Centre. Businesses were targeted amid significant security operations during confrontations between anti-Islamic protesters and anti-racist demonstrators. Missiles and fireworks were thrown, and chants of “Islam Out” were heard.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood assured ministers that the justice system is prepared to deliver swift convictions, potentially involving 24-hour court sessions as seen during the 2011 riots.
In Liverpool, around 300 individuals were involved in violent disorder on County Road, Walton, resulting in severe damage to community facilities like the Spellow Lane Library Hub. Rioters impeded firefighters, damaging a fire engine and injuring officers.
Merseyside Police reported 23 arrests on Saturday, including 12 in the city centre, nine on County Road, and two in Southport. One officer was injured by a demonstrator, while others faced attacks on riot shields.
The UK National Police Chiefs’ Council announced the deployment of 130 extra units, totalling nearly 4,000 additional public order-trained officers across the country.
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