PA Media has reported on the ongoing disorder in UK towns and cities, with Sir Keir Starmer promising communities that they „will be safe“ amidst the chaos. The Prime Minister, after chairing a second Cobra emergency meeting, stated that the government is doing everything possible to ensure that police can respond effectively wherever they are needed.
Police sources have revealed that nearly 6,000 public order officers are being mobilized to address any disorder in the coming days. Over 400 arrests have been made in connection with the unrest that followed the tragic killing of three girls in Southport. Misinformation circulating online, falsely claiming that the suspect was an asylum seeker, has fueled the unrest.
Despite the tense situation, police are confident that they have the resources to manage the potential gatherings planned for Wednesday. They are prepared to respond swiftly if the situation escalates further. Immigration lawyers have expressed concerns for their safety after their workplaces were targeted on social media. Police have advised them to take precautions such as working from home and securing their offices.
Following the Cobra meeting, Sir Keir reiterated that those involved in the unrest will face the full force of the law. Approximately 100 individuals have been charged in connection with the disorder, with more expected to face substantive sentencing by the end of the week. The first person to receive a prison sentence for their role in the unrest, James Nelson, was jailed for two months for causing criminal damage in Bolton.
The government has pledged to support police with additional costs for officers working overtime. In addition to deploying more riot police, forces are increasing neighborhood patrols and intensifying investigative efforts. They are utilizing various technologies such as CCTV, body-worn cameras, and facial recognition to identify perpetrators of violence. Intelligence teams are monitoring influencers and organizers for any suspicious activity.
Durham Constabulary issued dispersal orders to individuals gathering in the city center, with one arrest made. The Metropolitan Police in London are prepared to use all available resources to prevent further disorder. Police in Bristol are deploying additional resources in response to claims of an anti-immigration march, although they do not believe the event will take place.
The government has announced the availability of over 500 new prison places to accommodate those involved in the violence. Justice Minister Heidi Alexander confirmed the additional capacity, including cells at HMP Stocken and places at Cookham Wood Young Offender Institution. However, challenges in staffing these facilities may arise.
The criminal justice system is praised for its robust and swift response to the ongoing unrest. Prosecutors are considering terrorism offenses for some suspects, and extradition of social media influencers allegedly inciting violence is being explored. A 28-year-old man has been charged with posting content intended to stir up racial hatred, marking the first such charge in relation to the clashes.
In conclusion, the government and law enforcement agencies are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of communities amidst the disorder. With a coordinated response and a commitment to upholding the rule of law, they aim to bring those responsible for the unrest to justice and restore peace to the affected areas.