UK Police Brace for More Violence Amid Far-Right Protests

Police across the UK are preparing for more violence following a series of riots by far-right protesters. These protests were triggered by the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect in a stabbing incident that killed three young girls. Online rumors and far-right mobilization have exacerbated the situation.

Police across the UK are bracing for more violence Saturday following another night of rioting by far-right protesters. The violent clashes have already seen three officers hospitalized after a tense standoff outside a mosque in northeast England.

In Sunderland, protesters lobbed beer barrels, fire extinguishers, and rocks at police officers on Friday evening. A car was set on fire, and even a police station was attacked. The riots erupted after a 17-year-old was arrested for a stabbing rampage at a dance class on Monday that left three girls dead and several wounded. Online rumors falsely suggesting the suspect was a Muslim immigrant fueled the anger.

A judge identified the suspect, Axel Rudakubana, in part to stop the spread of misinformation. Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron stated that eight people had so far been arrested for various offenses, including violent disorder and burglary.

The new Labour Home Secretary Yvette Cooper warned that criminals attacking the police will "pay the price" and emphasized that the government fully supports the police in taking the strongest possible action. Over the weekend, more than 20 protests are expected, organized mainly online by far-right groups. Police have deployed additional officers and are using surveillance and facial recognition technology.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer blamed the violence on "far-right hatred" and pledged more resources to the police to prevent further lawlessness. According to Starmer, the street violence is not accidental but a coordinated effort by individuals intent on wreaking havoc.

(With inputs from agencies.)