05 Aug 2024 | 09:53 AM UTC
UK: Further protests denouncing Southport knife attack likely nationwide through early August /update 2
Protests denouncing the Southport knife attack are likely across the UK through early August. Heightened security, violent disorder likely.
Further protests denouncing the July 29 Southport knife attack are likely in urban centers throughout the UK through early August. In recent days, anti-immigration activists have staged increasingly violent demonstrations in cities including Bolton, Middlesborough, and Rotherham. Authorities have reported clashes, looting, injuries, and multiple arrests. Anti-immigration groups have not published details of upcoming gatherings, however further short-notice protests and associated heightened security are highly likely in coming days.
Counter-protests have been announced in coming days across the country. Planned gatherings include but are not limited to:
Aug. 5: Stand against Islamophobic Attacks will gather at Carfax Tower, Oxford, from 17:30
Aug. 5: The Stand Up to Racism group will meet at Guildhall Square, Plymouth, from 18:00
Aug. 7: Stand against Islamophobic attacks will meet at the Clock Tower, Lewisham from 19:00
Aug. 8: Anti-racism groups will meet at the Clock Tower, Brighton from 17:30
Aug. 10: Anti-racism groups will meet at Grey’s Monument, Newcastle, from 09:30
Aug. 10: Anti-racism groups will meet at Cedar Court Hotel, Wakefield, from 12:00.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that law enforcement officers are adopting a heightened posture nationwide. Authorities have declared Section 60 Orders, that grant police temporary enhanced stop and search powers, in Bolton, Liverpool, and Southport. The Muslim Council of Britain has announced increased security at mosques nationwide.
Heightened security will likely be visible in urban areas and towns nationwide through the coming days. Protests and counter-demonstrations are particularly likely to occur at or near mosques. Localized transport disruptions will likely accompany any demonstrations. Despite the heightened posture, police may be slow to respond to unannounced demonstrations. Clashes between demonstrators and police, as well as acts of vandalism against mosques and asylum centers, cannot be ruled out. Unauthorized demonstrations, particularly those that feature violence or vandalism, face an increased threat of provoking police action. Bystanders would face an incidental risk should any violence occur. Authorities may expand Section 60 Orders to additional areas, increasing the likelihood of interactions with police.
As a standard precaution, avoid all related demonstrations. Monitor local media for updates on protests. Allow additional time if traveling near demonstrations. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
The July 29 Southport knife attack, in which three children were killed and several others injured, has prompted a strong and immediate response from Southport residents, anti-immigration activists, and nationalist activists.
Protests began in Southport on July 30, where anti-immigration activists clashed with police outside a local mosque following peaceful gatherings by residents and local politicians. On July 31, around 100 anti-immigration and nationalist activists were arrested following violent protests near Downing Street and Whitehall in London; related demonstrations also took place in Manchester, Hartlepool, and Aldershot, where several arrests and injuries occurred.
