- Over 90 arrests after the UK riots
Serious Riots by Ultranationalists in Several British Cities Result in Over 90 Arrests
Serious disturbances by ultranationalists in several British cities have led to over 90 arrests by the police. The anti-Muslim riots have been ongoing for days now. The main cause is misinformation on social media about the identity of a knife attacker who stabbed three girls to death and seriously injured several children and two adults in the northwest English town of Southport on Monday.
Severe Damage and Numerous Arrests After Disturbances
Several officers were injured, shops were looted, and cars were set on fire, according to police reports. In Liverpool, a library serving the poor suffered severe fire damage. Protesters tried to hinder firefighting efforts. The Merseyside Police made 23 arrests.
In the northwest English town of Blackpool, there were clashes between ultranationalists and counter-protesters. In Blackpool, Preston, and Blackburn, the Lancashire Police made 20 arrests. In Bristol in the west of England, there were 14 arrests, and in Kingston upon Hull in northeast England, there were 20. Authorities are preparing for further disturbances.
Farage Accused of Inciting Violence
A well-known far-right figure called for the protests. Critics also accuse right-wing populist MP Nigel Farage, who played a significant role in the Brexit campaign, of fueling speculation about the Southport bloodshed and thereby inciting unrest.
The police have clarified that the 17-year-old suspect, who is in custody, was born in the UK. His parents are from Rwanda. The motive remains unclear.
The escalating tensions within The Community have been exacerbated by the ongoing disturbances. The Merseyside Police, in an attempt to maintain peace, have made several arrests and are prepared for further unrest.
