Police officers injured as far-right activists face off against anti-racism groups across UK
A number of British police officers have been injured as far-right activists faced off with anti-racism protesters following a stabbing rampage at a dance class earlier this week that left three girls dead and several wounded
LONDON (AP) — A number of British police officers were injured Saturday as far-right activists faced off with anti-racism protesters in cities and towns across the country, following a stabbing rampage at a dance class earlier this week that left three girls dead and several wounded.
With dozens of similar gatherings taking place around the country this warm and sunny weekend, police mounted a significant security operation, deploying thousands more officers onto the streets, many in riot gear. Police have also made more prison cells available and are using surveillance and facial recognition technology. Court hours have also been extended to judge those arrested.
On Saturday, Merseyside Police said a number of officers were injured in “serious disorder” in the center of Liverpool, about 20 miles away from the scene of the stabbing attack in the seaside town of Southport in the northwest of England that has resulted in understandable anguish across the country.
“Let’s call this out for what it is — mindless thuggery by people looking for an excuse to spew hatred and carry out acts of violence," Liverpool City region Mayor Steve Rotheram said.
