Police have arrested 16 people following violent disorder that erupted during a protest outside a migrant hotel in Essex last week. The demonstration at the Bell Hotel in Epping began peacefully on Thursday but quickly escalated into what officers described as "scattered incidents of violence".
Essex Police said a small number of people had used the peaceful demonstration as cover to commit violent disorder and criminal damage. Eight officers were injured and several police vehicles were damaged as missiles were thrown at both police and property.
Six people charged
Six people have been charged in connection with the violence, including Kenneth Blissett, 34, of Long Banks, Harlow, Essex. Blissett was charged on Thursday with theft of police equipment and possession of an offensive weapon and remains on bail until his appearance at Colchester Magistrates' Court on 30th September.
Another man in his twenties was detained at an address in Harlow at about 5.45pm on Wednesday on suspicion of violent disorder. He remains in custody for questioning whilst police say they have seized evidence from the scene.
Two men wanted
Officers are appealing for information about two men they want to speak to in connection with the violence. Martin Peagram, 33, who has links to Stansted, Essex, is described as 6ft, of slim build, with short brown hair and facial stubble.
Philip Curson, 52, who has no fixed address, is 5ft 8in, stocky, with short brown hair and full tattoo sleeves on both arms, as well as tattoos on his neck. Essex Police said they are no longer seeking Shaun Thompson, 37, who was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remains in custody.
More arrests expected
Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said officers had been analysing footage and had investigators and trained detectives working on the operation. "We are identifying suspects and there will be more arrests in the coming days," he said.
"Put simply, if you turn up to try to cause trouble, you won't get away with it." Detectives have also released body-worn video showing one of the arrests as part of their ongoing investigation.
Political controversy
The Epping protest was sparked by the charging of asylum-seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, with sexual assault after he allegedly attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl. He denied the charge at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court and will stand trial in August.
The protest has drawn national attention and sparked a political row, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage calling for Essex Police Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington to resign. Farage made claims that officers transported left-wing protesters to the scene, which the chief constable has denied.
The latest developments come as police are braced for further protests, and the Government and law enforcement have vowed to act swiftly if unrest spreads.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
