Far-right protesters erupted in violence across Sunderland on Friday night, marking the beginning of a weekend of anticipated disturbances. The unrest was sparked by the recent murder of three girls in Southport, leading to demonstrations expected in numerous towns and cities throughout England and Wales.
The Home Office has issued warnings about the potential for further violence, emphasizing that authorities will be closely monitoring the situation.
In Sunderland, the protests turned destructive as demonstrators set fire to a building near a police station, overturned vehicles, and threw projectiles at riot police. The situation escalated further when police intervened to prevent attacks on a local mosque.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth condemned the violence, labeling it as “inexcusable criminality” and criticizing those who have used the tragedy to advance extremist agendas rather than honor the victims.
Far-Right Violence Erupts in Sunderland and Other UK Cities After Southport Murders
In Liverpool, community members, including an elderly woman holding a “nans against Nazis” sign, gathered to protect a mosque from a group of far-right agitators. Police managed to keep the opposing groups apart, but tensions remained high across the UK. Anti-extremism group Hope Not Hate reported planned rallies in over 30 locations throughout England and Wales, reflecting the widespread nature of the unrest.
Home Office minister Lord David Hanson warned that those engaging in violent protests would face severe legal consequences. A substantial number of arrests have been made, including over 100 individuals detained at a demonstration outside Downing Street.
The government is considering a stricter policing approach, with John Woodcock advocating for preemptive measures to prevent violent gatherings. Sir Keir Starmer has met with local leaders to discuss support for affected families and community cohesion.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage suggested that the far-right’s actions are a reaction to broader societal anxieties about immigration, though he condemned the violence. Farage faced criticism for allegedly legitimizing and excusing the violence.
Former counterterrorism head Neil Basu urged caution in the use of rhetoric. Upcoming protests are expected to target sites associated with asylum seekers, complicating policing efforts amid other unrelated demonstrations in cities like Manchester, London, and Leeds.
