Violent Protests in UK: 150 Injured, Attempts to Burn Migrant Hotel; PM Starmer Warns Offenders
A week ago, in the city of Southport, UK, three young women were killed in a knife attack. The ensuing chaos has not subsided. Reports of arson and clashes with the police have emerged from 17 cities. Several police officers have been injured, with one in critical condition.
Vandalism in Hotel Housing Refugees in Rotherham City
On Sunday, right-wing protesters vandalized a hotel in Rotherham city, northern England, that housed refugees. The protesters targeted the Holiday Inn Express hotel, chanting slogans and throwing bottles to break several windows. The hotel accommodates 500 refugees.
Government Grants Police Permission to Act Amidst Unrest
In light of the situation, the government has now granted police the freedom to take action. Police have arrested more than 150 protesters in England and Northern Ireland. It is said to be the largest riot in Britain in 13 years.
PM Convenes Emergency Meeting and Releases Video Statement
Due to the seriousness of the matter, an emergency meeting was called on Monday at the official residence of the Prime Minister, 10 Downing Street. In a video message, Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the incident. He stated that organized violence is being perpetrated under the guise of protests.
PM’s Commitment to Jail Perpetrators of Violence
PM Starmer said that he would do whatever it takes to send these thugs to jail. He stated that the police will arrest, remand, charge, and punish individuals. He assured that participants in this violence will regret their actions, whether they were involved directly or online.
PM’s Stance on Violence Based on Skin Color
The PM emphasized that anyone who commits violence based on skin color is a far-right winger. People have the right to feel safe in this country. Despite this, the Muslim community has been targeted, and mosques have been attacked. Right-minded people should condemn such violence.
Attack on Minor Girls Triggered Violence
In fact, last Monday evening, a minor attacked several people with a knife at a dance class in Southport near Liverpool. According to BBC reports, three children were killed, and nearly a dozen people were injured.
Online Rumors and Court’s Decision to Identify the Suspect
After this incident, an online rumor spread that the attacker was a Muslim refugee, sparking outrage. In the UK, the names of suspects under 18 are not disclosed. However, the court had to make an exception in this case.
Court Orders Identification to Stop Rumors
The court ordered the identification of Axel Rudakubana, born in Rwanda, Wales, to prevent the spread of rumors. Rudakubana faces three charges of murder and ten charges of attempted murder.