Over 90 arrested after far-right demonstrations turn violent across UK
In Liverpool, police face protesters outside the Liver Building on Saturday, during far-right 'Enough is Enough' demonstration. (AFP Photo)
More than 90 people were arrested after far-right demonstrations descended into riots in several towns and cities across the U.K. on Saturday.
Violence erupted in Hull, Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent, Blackpool, and Belfast, with fireworks thrown, shops looted, and far-right mobs attacking the local Muslim communities and the police.
Some smaller demonstrations remained peaceful.
U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer pledged the government’s full support to the police in taking action against “extremists” aiming to “sow hate.”
Following a government meeting, a spokesperson for Starmer emphasized the distinction between the right to freedom of expression and violent disorder, stating there is no excuse for violence and affirming government support for the police to maintain public safety.
Tensions following Southport incident
Tensions have been high following the killing of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday.
In Liverpool, bricks, bottles and a flare were thrown at police, injuring several police officers.
Around a thousand anti-immigration protesters, some shouting Islamophobic slurs were confronted by counter-protesters.
The videos show many children were among the right-wing extremists participating in the protests. In some areas, right-wing extremists were seen giving Nazi salutes and attacking stands in local Muslim neighborhoods.
Clashes in Liverpool
A few hundred ANTIFA demonstrators gathered near Liverpool’s Lime Street station, calling for unity and tolerance, chanting “refugees are welcome here” and “Nazi scum, off our streets.” Police in riot gear, with dogs, struggled to keep the two sides apart. Reinforcements were called to maintain order. The unrest continued into early Sunday morning, with fireworks launched at police officers.
In Liverpool’s Walton area, a library was set on fire, and rioters attempted to prevent firefighters from extinguishing it. Shops were broken into, and several wheelie bins were set on fire. U.K.
Merseyside Police confirmed multiple officers were injured, with two hospitalized for a suspected broken nose and jaw. They reported 23 arrests.
More protests are expected on Sunday, although fewer than on Saturday.
U.K. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper warned that those engaging in “unacceptable disorder” would face imprisonment and travel bans.
