Protests that began in Southport following a tragic stabbing incident have spread to London and Manchester, fueled by misinformation and far-right sentiment. The unrest, which started after false claims about the suspect’s background circulated online, has led to violent confrontations with police and arrests.
In London, demonstrators gathered outside Downing Street and Parliament, waving St George flags and letting off smoke bombs. Protesters were heard chanting “stop the boats,” “save our kids,” and other slogans targeting migrants and Muslims. The situation escalated as some individuals attacked police officers with beer cans and glass bottles, prompting the deployment of riot police and a police helicopter.
The Metropolitan Police issued a statement acknowledging a protest badged as ‘Enough is Enough’ taking place on Whitehall. They emphasized their role in protecting the lawful right to protest while preventing serious disruption to the wider community.
Meanwhile, in Manchester, a protest erupted outside a Holiday Inn Hotel believed to be housing asylum seekers. A crowd of around 40 people, including children and young men wearing balaclavas, gathered chanting “we want our country back” and “shame on you.” The situation turned violent, with reports of a man being dragged off a bus and assaulted, and rocks and bottles being thrown at riot police.
The unrest stems from a stabbing incident in Southport on Monday, where three young girls were fatally stabbed at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party. Eight other children and two adults were also injured, with five in critical condition. A 17-year-old suspect, born in Cardiff but living in Lancashire, has been arrested and remains in custody.
Merseyside Police have made multiple arrests in connection with the riots in Southport, including a fifth person arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, threats to kill, and a racially aggravated public order offense.
Chief Constable Serena Kennedy of Merseyside Police expressed concern about the possibility of a second night of unrest in Southport, acknowledging that local communities are “really worried.” The police have called in support from other regions to prepare for potential further violence.
The spread of these protests highlights the dangerous impact of misinformation and the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public order while respecting the right to protest. As the situation continues to develop, authorities remain on high alert across multiple UK cities.
