The violence comes in the wake of the tragic killing of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party in Southport, Merseyside, earlier in the week.
In Liverpool, clashes erupted between around 1,000 anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters. Violence escalated as bricks, bottles, and a flare were thrown at police, leading to injuries among officers, including one with a suspected broken nose and another with a broken jaw. The unrest continued into the early hours of Sunday, with fireworks targeted at police and a library set on fire.
In Bristol, a standoff occurred between protest groups and counter-protesters. Songs such as “Rule Britannia” and “England ‘til I Die” were sung by one faction, while beer cans were thrown at anti-racism demonstrators. Avon and Somerset Police reported 14 arrests in the city, with expectations of more to follow.
Manchester saw scuffles with police and at least two arrests, while in Belfast, protesters outside a mosque threw objects at media members and vandalized a cafe, leading to two arrests.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed full government support for police actions against “extremists” and condemned the violence. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper warned that those engaging in “unacceptable disorder” would face severe penalties, including imprisonment and travel bans.
Starmer emphasized that while freedom of expression is protected, violent disorder is unacceptable. The government has promised full backing for police efforts to maintain public safety.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Simms condemned the violence in Merseyside, stating, “The disorder, violence, and destruction has no place here in Merseyside, least of all after the tragic events that took place in Southport on Monday.”
Authorities are bracing for further protests on Sunday but expect fewer demonstrations compared to Saturday’s upheaval.