The UK government will hold an emergency Cobra meeting on Monday in response to a weekend of violent unrest across several towns and cities, which has resulted in over 150 arrests.
Downing Street confirmed the decision to hold the high-level meeting after violent clashes erupted in Rotherham, Middlesbrough, Bolton, and other locations.
The unrest follows the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport last week, marking the sixth consecutive day of escalating violence.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer condemned an attack on a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham, vowing that those responsible would face “the full force of the law.”
Police reported that anti-immigration demonstrators clashed with officers, resulting in injuries to at least ten police personnel, including one officer who was left unconscious.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a televised address, unequivocally denounced the violence as ‘far-right thuggery,’ reassuring the public that the government is committed to protecting all communities, including mosques and minority groups, from such acts.
The Home Office has announced enhanced protections for mosques and a rapid security deployment process to ensure the safety of worshippers.
In Rotherham, demonstrators threw planks of wood and sprayed fire extinguishers at police, leading to significant damage and injuries.
Similar scenes of violence were reported in Tamworth, Middlesbrough, Dorset, and Bolton, where anti-immigration protestors faced off against large groups of counter-protesters.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, in response to the ‘utterly appalling’ scenes, reassured the police of the government’s unwavering support to take decisive action, instilling a sense of security in the audience.
Authorities are considering measures such as around-the-clock court sessions to expedite prosecutions, a strategy reminiscent of those employed during the 2011 riots when Sir Keir Starmer was Director of Public Prosecutions.
As the government prepares for Monday’s Cobra meeting, the focus will be on assessing the situation, coordinating responses, and planning further actions. The government is committed to restoring order and addressing the underlying causes of the unrest, giving the audience hope for a resolution.
