Intelligence Warns of More Protests Amid Calm: Government and Police Brace for Potential Unrest

The Minister of Policing has indicated that intelligence reports suggest more protests are anticipated in the near future. He noted that around 100 demonstrations were expected on Wednesday evening, amid concerns of potential unrest. However, a strong law enforcement turnout coupled with non-violent counter-demonstrations prevailed.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Thursday, August 8, 2024, 10:

For optimal video playback, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser.

The minister responsible for policing has indicated that intelligence suggests further protests might occur in the coming days, although fears of violence from the previous evening proved unfounded.

Dame Diana Johnson expressed to Sky News, "I am wary regarding the events that occurred last evening.

"We're fortunate that the chaos and lawlessness we've witnessed recently did not occur today, but clearly, this is only the beginning."

"New information has emerged about occurrences over the coming days, and it's important to observe the developments there."

She did not specify the number or locations of the planned events.

Stay updated with live political news

Authorities were aware of plans for 100 demonstrations throughout the UK on Wednesday evening after a week marked by rioting.

Following a significant orchestrated law enforcement initiative, it was primarily the counter-demonstrators who appeared and demonstrated peacefully.

For an enhanced video viewing experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser

Dame Diana expressed her belief that the absence of far-right protesters was due to the visible police force and the quick arrest and prosecution of those who rioted.

Since the initial unrest last Tuesday, triggered by incorrect rumors online claiming the suspect in the Southport stabbings was a Syrian refugee who arrived in the UK by a small boat last year, over 400 individuals have been detained.

Axel Rudakubana, a 17-year-old born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, faces charges for the murder of three young girls and the attempted murder of eight children and two adults.

Following the onset of the riots, authorities have brought charges against over 120 individuals for a range of crimes, such as engaging in violent disturbances, racially motivated harassment, and the online incitement of racial animosity.

For further details: Authorities share surveillance photos of riot suspects. Finance Minister considers pension overhaul inspired by Canadian model.

For an enhanced video viewing experience, it's recommended to use the Chrome browser

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, who oversaw much of the police operations on Wednesday, stated that a strong police presence and community solidarity prevailed.

"He expressed his satisfaction with the outcome."

"We deployed a large number of police officers throughout the city, and I believe that the strong presence of law enforcement, coupled with significant community solidarity, effectively overcame the difficulties we faced."

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

He declared that early morning operations were conducted on Thursday to apprehend individuals suspected of recent violent crimes.

He disclosed that approximately 70% of the most violent offenders possess prior criminal records.

Authorities are diligently analyzing video and evidence collected from the recent week of disturbances and plan to apprehend those involved within the next day, he mentioned.

"These individuals are lawbreakers and hooligans. The notion that they are defenders of some righteous cause or patriots is completely absurd," he continued.

"Many of them are offenders and, quite honestly, a large number will face charges of violent disorder and are likely to be incarcerated for several years."

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information About Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Television Networks

Additional Sky Websites