A police station in Sunderland was set on fire during violent riots as a far-right mob targeted a mosque in the area, shouting Islamophobic slogans. Emergency services responded to the scene at the old Sunderland Central Police Office, where part of the building was engulfed in flames. While Northumbria Police has not confirmed the incident, they mentioned on social media that their officers faced serious violence during the unrest.
In addition to the chaos in Sunderland, there was a confrontation between the police and protesters outside a mosque on St Mark’s Road. These demonstrations stem from misinformation circulating on social media regarding the tragic stabbings in Southport, where three young children lost their lives. Axel Rudakubana, 17, was brought to court on suspicion of murder in connection with this incident.
Following these events, Sir Keir Starmer has placed police forces on high alert due to planned far-right protests scheduled for the weekend. Reports indicate that at least 35 such demonstrations have been advertised online, indicating a concerning trend of violence and unrest.
The Education Secretary and Sunderland MP, Bridget Phillipson, condemned the violence in the city, describing it as “unforgivable violence and thuggery.” She emphasized that such criminal behavior must be met with the full force of the law and that the perpetrators do not represent the values of Sunderland.
In response to the escalating situation, eight individuals have been arrested, and three police officers were hospitalized as a result of the riots in Sunderland. Chief Superintendent Helena Barron expressed her dismay at the violence, stating that such behavior would not be tolerated. She commended the officers for their unwavering commitment in the face of adversity and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to hold those responsible accountable.
Additionally, an eighth person has been arrested in connection with disorder in Southport, following the tragic knife attack that claimed the lives of three young girls. Merseyside Police are actively pursuing individuals involved in the disorder and are determined to prevent further unrest in the community.
The images captured during these events showcase the intensity of the clashes between law enforcement and far-right activists, with scenes of mounted police facing off against demonstrators and police cars being set ablaze. The unrest in Sunderland serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by extremist groups and the importance of maintaining public safety in the face of such threats.
