Police injured in second night of anti-immigration disorder in Thetford
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Two police officers were injured during anti-immigration protests in Thetford, England.
- A male officer was struck by a rock, and a female officer was bitten, breaking the skin.
- Authorities condemned the violence, promising robust action against disorder while supporting peaceful protest.
Two police officers sustained injuries during a second night of anti-immigration disorder in the market town of Thetford. Norfolk Police reported that "significant police resources" were deployed to maintain public safety after a large group gathered on Wednesday.
We will not stand by and allow violence to take place, whether that is directed towards members of the public, local residents or police officers carrying out their duties.
Members of the group became "physically aggressive towards officers," according to the force. A male officer was struck with a rock, and a female officer suffered a serious bite that broke the skin. Assistant chief constable Julie Dean stated, "We will not stand by and allow violence to take place, whether that is directed towards members of the public, local residents or police officers carrying out their duties."
the ugly scenes in Thetford over the past few days have been difficult to watch and are deeply concerning
The unrest followed disturbances on Tuesday, which included property damage like smashed windows and broken fences. Individuals also attempted to break into a residential property. Terry Jermy, the Labour MP for South West Norfolk, described the scenes as "ugly" and "deeply concerning." He previously urged the Home Office to clarify plans for housing asylum seekers in former military barracks near Thetford.
Whatever our own individuals views on immigration, mob rule and vigilantism is not acceptable.
Jermy condemned the unrest, emphasizing that mob rule and vigilantism are unacceptable, regardless of individual views on immigration. He highlighted the terror experienced by residents whose homes were entered and property damaged. "I do not know the immigration status of the people placed in these properties or their legal status, but I know they are human beings that must be afforded the same rights that we all expect in this country," he said.
I do not know the immigration status of the people placed in these properties or their legal status, but I know they are human beings that must be afforded the same rights that we all expect in this country.
Originally published by BBC News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.