British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemns "far-right thuggery" after violent anti-immigration protests targeted hotels housing asylum seekers.
The unrest followed the fatal stabbing of three girls at a dance class in Southport, northwest England. Although the suspect, a native Briton, is not considered a terrorist, misinformation spurred anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim sentiment.
Protests erupted in Liverpool, Bristol, and Manchester, leading to arrests, property damage, and injuries. In Rotherham, northern England, protesters attacked a hotel, injuring ten police officers. Starmer, who recently took office after a Labour Party victory, vowed that perpetrators would face severe legal consequences. He highlighted the fear among residents due to the "marauding gangs."
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Assistant Chief Constable Lindsey Butterfield condemned the violence for causing destruction and public fear. The unrest spread to smaller towns like Lancaster, Bolton, and Aldershot, resulting in more arrests and public warnings.
The interior ministry announced increased security for mosques after threats in Middlesbrough, where police dealt with violent protests. In Tamworth, central England, a hotel was targeted by a large group, leading to further police injuries.
This wave of protests is the most significant since 2011, when riots followed the police shooting of a Black man in London. Community and faith leaders in Liverpool criticized the recent violence for exploiting tragedy to sow division and hate.
Prime Minister Starmer, emphasizing a tough stance on violence, reassured the public that those responsible would be held accountable.
The National Police Chiefs' Council confirmed ongoing arrests, with 147 individuals detained since Saturday. The interior ministry's new security measures aim to protect vulnerable sites and prevent further unrest.
