A number of people have caused damage to a hotel in Tamworth, Staffordshire, prompting police to warn the public to stay away from the area due to violent acts. Videos posted on social media websites show a group of individuals throwing items and starting fires at the Holiday Inn Express. The police said that one officer had been injured, whilst the national police’s air service and drones had been utilised to monitor those causing such destruction.
The Tamworth SnowDome also had to be evacuated by police officers, since it is next to the hotel. Such behaviour is a sharp contrast from what Staffordshire Police described as a “peaceful and respectful” protest earlier in the day in Stoke-on-Trent, where officers were also injured. Hundreds had descended on Hanley, following the recent Southport attacks where three teenagers were killed. Ten individuals were reported to have been arrested, including a 15- and 16-year-old who both face charges of possessing weapons.
The council leader of Stoke-on-Trent, Jane Ashworth, described the violence as “horrendous” and “horrifying,” stressing that “we do not want this kind of thing going on in our city.” Having praised the work of the police, she added that “this city will not stand for people – whoever they are – attacking other people or premises violently,” warning that those found guilty would face extended prison sentences. Meanwhile, assistant chief constable Stuart Ellison recognised that misinformation spread via social media can be incredibly damaging and that the police must act against it.
Over 100 individuals have been arrested across the UK because of protests organised by far-right groups. The police have vowed that those involved in violent or disruptive behaviour will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. In a show of unity, faiths in Stoke-on-Trent called for peace and understanding, emphasising that hate and violence will never solve any issues
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