UK: Clashes between protesters and law enforcement officers occurring in Bolton and Middlesbrough Aug. 4

Clashes between demonstrators and police, as well as among rival groups of activists are taking place in Bolton and Middlesbrough as of the afternoon of Aug. 4. The protests broke out in response to a fatal stabbing incident that occurred in Southport July 29.

In Bolton, two opposing groups of protesters clashed with each other, as well as with police in the town center. Rival demonstrators launched fireworks and other objects at each other and at police; officers initially managed to keep the two groups separated near Bolton Town Hall before they came into contact on nearby streets. Hundreds of people took part in the protests.

In Middlesbrough, demonstrators gathered in the city center, where they clashed with police. Activists evaded law enforcement officers and began burning cars and trash containers, as well as causing property damage to nearby businesses.

Authorities are advising the public to avoid the affected areas. Sporadic clashes will likely continue through late Aug. 4; confrontations could abate in some locations before restarting elsewhere in the cities in question. Heightened security deployments and transport disruptions will likely extend into the morning hours of Aug. 5. Significant business disruptions are likely.