Far right protesters in Plymouth, including thugs from the EDL and international fascist groups, have caused scenes of trouble in the city as residents were told to avoid some areas
Multiple people are injured after fireworks, stones, a hospital crutch, a can of cider and a flare were thrown tonight as a group of far right thugs were confronted by a counter protest in the centre of Plymouth.
There has been violence up and down the country since three young girls were stabbed and killed while attending a dance event in Southport. Anti-migrant protests, sparked by misinformation spread online about the murder suspect, erupted with almost 400 arrests made.
This evening a group of far right protesters in Plymouth were confronted by Stand Up To Racism counter-protesters, with a line of riot police standing between them. Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed a police van has been damaged tonight and “arrests are ongoing”.
Two rival groups clashed in Plymouth tonight (
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Three police officers were injured and a woman from the anti-racism counter protest was reportedly struck in the head by a “flying item”. People have been advised to avoid the city centre, amid fears of trouble in the area.
Devon and Cornwall Police said on X: “We have seen a level of violence towards officers in Plymouth and a police van has been damaged. We are taking action against individuals who are intent on criminality. Arrests are ongoing.”
Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew, from Devon and Cornwall Police, said earlier: “As a result of the information we have received, we will be increasing our presence in the city centre. I have a dedicated team planning the policing for this, and other events as they occur during the week.
There was a stand-off in Plymouth tonight (
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“We are liaising with the organisers to ensure compliance with the current law and to protect our communities. We understand the right to protest, but some protests have resulted in disorder and such conduct will not be tolerated. We will take positive action against individuals in breach of the law.
“We are fully prepared to respond to incidents of disorder, and we have the resources in place to deal with these incidents to ensure that there is minimal disruption to the local community.”
A far right protest had been scheduled for 7pm (
Anadolu via Getty Images)
Earlier today city councillor Sally Haydon, cabinet member for community safety, called on the groups to stay away, adding: “If you are thinking of coming to Plymouth to cause trouble or criminal activity then do not bother. You are not welcome.
“We are a united city, one that embraces and celebrates diversity and all communities. We must not allow ourselves to be divided by racists who are capitalising on an awful tragedy with lies and misinformation. Even today we have seen social media posts claiming that certain hotels in the city centre are housing refugees. That is simply not true.
Riot police stand between the rival groups (
Anadolu via Getty Images)
“Throughout the day, council officers have been working hard with the police and other partners, to ensure the city centre is prepared. We’ve spoken to businesses, installed more CCTV and ensured properties are as secure as they can be. At the same time we have reached out to our local community leaders – to offer reassurance and support.
“Whilst we do not know what is going to happen this evening, we want everyone to be safe. Therefore, staying away from the city centre for the next few hours might be the most sensible thing to do. We are hopeful everything will be peaceful but should that not be the case, together with our partners, we have robust plans in place.”
