Violent protests following the bloody act - Child arrested for setting fire to a house in England
Following violent disturbances in the UK, police have arrested an 11-year-old boy on suspicion of arson. The boy is alleged to have set fire to a police car during riots in the northeast English town of Hartlepool. The vehicle was completely destroyed.
The disturbances occurred after a teenager stabbed three girls to death and seriously injured eight other children and two adults in the coastal town of Southport on Monday. Southport, with a population of around 90,000, is located north of Liverpool.
Far-right groups claim that authorities are concealing the true identity of the attacker. Rumors had circulated on social media that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker. Police have stated that the 17-year-old suspect was born in the UK and that his parents are from Rwanda.
Seven men charged
Approximately 150 people had rioted and attacked police in Hartlepool on Wednesday evening, injuring four officers. So far, 12 people have been arrested. Seven men have been charged with "violent disorder" and are due to appear in court today.
There were also clashes between far-right groups and police in London's government district. Over 110 people were arrested. On Tuesday evening, riots occurred in Southport, with a mosque and police officers targeted, leaving over 50 officers injured. Seven people have been arrested so far, and the Merseyside Police have announced further arrests.
Fears of new riots
Authorities are preparing for further riots tonight and over the weekend. Ultra-nationalists have called for protests in numerous cities, often near mosques. The new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer's government, has announced a tough stance against rioters.
The seven men charged with "violent disorder" in Hartlepool are expected to face court for their actions against the police. Despite the arrests, tensions remain high, with authorities anticipating more clashes between the police and far-right groups.
