Two individuals have been apprehended, and law enforcement officers were swiftly transported to a medical facility following a display of ‘mob rule’ at an anti-immigration demonstration.
Authorities revealed that a significant number of resources were dispatched to Thetford, Norfolk, yesterday evening after a sizable crowd assembled on a residential street. Allegedly, some members of the group tried to access a residence and clashed with police when they intervened.
According to police reports, a male officer was hit with a rock, a female officer was bitten, and another officer was spat at during the incident. Two arrests were carried out for various offenses, including public disorder, harassment, and possession of a weapon.
A man in his forties is currently under custody. Brian Thompson, 68, from Thetford, was accused of possessing an offensive weapon, specifically a wooden bat. He has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in Norwich Magistrates’ Court on August 25.
A Norfolk Police spokesperson stated: “Around 9.30 pm, officers responded to reports of individuals in the group attempting to enter a residential property.
“As officers intervened, group members turned physically aggressive towards law enforcement – resulting in two officers being hospitalized after a male officer was struck by a rock, and a female officer was severely bitten, causing skin breakage.
“A third officer was also subjected to spitting.”
Earlier, a large gathering had congregated outside the police station for the protest, which authorities described as predominantly peaceful. This occurrence followed previous disturbances on Tuesday night, where police noted instances of broken windows, damaged fences, and an attempt to force entry into a residential property.
The disturbances were triggered by rumors that the residences were being utilized to accommodate asylum seekers. Video footage circulated on social media depicted five men being escorted from the premises by police while an agitated crowd booed and shouted “get out.”
Local Labour MP Terry Jermy condemned the unrest, stating in a release: “Individuals have been forcibly removed from their homes – a place of refuge – with reports of members of the public breaking into homes, looting, and vandalizing property.
“This must have been a harrowing experience for the occupants of these properties and concerning for nearby residents. I unequivocally denounce this behavior, and I know many Thetford residents share my revulsion and apprehension.
“Following these incidents, numerous local residents from various backgrounds have contacted my office expressing safety concerns. I may not have information on the immigration or legal status of the individuals housed in these properties, but they are human beings entitled to the same rights we all expect in this nation.
“Regardless of our personal opinions on immigration – mob rule and vigilante actions are unacceptable.”