UK Courts to Operate Overnight in Swift Response to Nationwide Violent Clashes

Judiciary prepared for round-the-clock sessions following unrest in several UK cities

Numerous arrests were made on Saturday due to outbreaks of violence throughout the UK, with officials cautioning that individuals involved in "criminal thuggery" will face consequences.

Sunday, August 4, 2024, at 12

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The authorities have pledged to go to any lengths necessary to handle individuals involved in criminal acts amid the widespread unrest in the UK, including extending court hours to operate through the night.

The government's consultant on issues of political violence and disruption has issued a warning that states hostile to their interests are very likely supporting far-right groups in their efforts to spread and intensify false information.

Breaking News: Rioters opposing immigration vandalize property and throw furniture at officers while storming a hotel.

Speaking to Sky News, Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson assured that the government will allocate the required resources to expedite the processing of those arrested.

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When questioned if this extends to courts operating around the clock, she responded, "The prime minister has explicitly stated that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure individuals have access through the judicial system."

"Individuals have been apprehended and detained. We aim to communicate a strong message: those who partake in such criminal activities will be held responsible."

She mentioned that the prime minister, who was the director of public prosecutions during the 2011 riots when courts remained operational overnight, is consequently "extremely knowledgeable … in ensuring that necessary resources are accessible."

She further verified that there was sufficient space in prisons to incarcerate the convicted individuals.

"She emphasized the importance of ensuring that no one feels endangered in their own neighborhoods, especially those who feel vulnerable due to their racial background."

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Numerous individuals were detained following outbreaks of violence in England and Northern Ireland this past Saturday, with authorities cautioning that further disturbances are expected in the near future.

Law enforcement officials sustained injuries during assaults, and confrontations occurred between those opposing immigration and individuals protesting against them.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that individuals engaged in the disturbances "will face consequences," and emphasized that "criminal violence and disorder are unacceptable on the streets of Britain."

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has informed government officials that the entire justice system is prepared to expedite the process of securing convictions.

This week, demonstrations broke out after three young girls were fatally stabbed in Southport. The incident was compounded by a surge of false information regarding the suspect, propagated online by far-right groups and provocateurs.

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Discover additional insights on Sky News: Over 90 detained following tumultuous demonstrations throughout the UK. On-the-scene account: A firsthand look at the chaos in Bristol. How Starmer's resume might aid in addressing the disorder.

Lord Walney, the official consultant on political violence and disruption, informed Sky News that the Southport incident was exploited by extremist right-wing elements, likely with the support of antagonistic nations, to craft and disseminate disinformation aimed at spreading misleading stories.

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He expressed that the government needs to increase its efforts to tackle accounts disseminating misinformation, and he has suggested in his latest report to the authorities that intelligence and security agencies should receive additional resources.

"He mentioned that there are troll factories located in countries such as Russia and Iran. These facilities are staffed by locals who pose as British citizens holding radical right-wing or left-wing ideologies, with their primary objective being to spread and amplify disinformation."

"This could have a profound impact in these surroundings."

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