We’re better than this – leaders back police after weekend of far right looting and violence
Businesses across the region are this morning counting the cost of violent disorder in towns and cities across the North West over the weekend.
And people involved in the outbreak of public disorder have been warned more arrests will follow once CCTV footage has been examined.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “Big thanks to all the officers and civilian staff who have worked hard today to keep people safe.”
At a press conference yesterday (5 August 2024) he said: “I will personally ensure GMP will have all the resources they need to maintain control of our streets — and law and order in our communities. All residents in Greater Manchester can be assured we can do everything within our power to keep you safe.”
He ended the press conference by saying “Greater Manchester is better than this.”
Prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, said: “I utterly condemn the far-right thuggery we have seen this weekend. Be in no doubt: those who have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law.”
Far right thugs and anti-fascist protesters clashed in Manchester, Liverpool and Blackpool on Saturday.
A supermarket was looted by rioters chanting “In-ger-lund” and “Oh Tommy, Tommy” in Manchester city centre, and public transport was disrupted as police struggled to enforce a Section 34 dispersal order.
A young black man was assaulted by a mob of thugs in Piccadilly Gardens and kicked while on the ground. Arrests have been made following incidents in Piccadilly Gardens.
Merseyside Police said six people have now been charged following disorder in Southport, Liverpool city centre and Walton in the past week.
Lancashire Police said 22 people were arrested across the county: 20 of those people were arrested in Blackpool, one person was arrested in Blackburn and one person was arrested in Preston.
Of those 22 detained, 18 have been released on police bail, one has been released under investigation, and three remain in custody.
Lancashire Police said several Section 34 dispersal orders were issued in parts of Lancaster, Blackpool, Preston and Blackburn.
Attendees of the Rebellion punk festival in Blackpool clashed with far-right troublemakers in the resort.
Deputy Chief Constable Sam Mackenzie, of Lancashire Constabulary said: “People should be allowed to enjoy their town and city centres without the threat of violence or disruption.
“Those arrested come from Lancashire so for some reason it is local people who seem intent on causing harm to their own communities. This has nothing to do with legitimate protest or the tragic events of last Monday.
“To the members of our communities affected: thank you for your patience and understanding whilst our officers responded to the disruption. We will continue to put public safety first and we are grateful for your support.”
