Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed that communities will be safe following a Cobra meeting and has warned that those involved in unrest will face the full force of the law. He highlighted that substantive sentencing is expected before the end of the week to send a powerful message to those participating in disorder. The recent violence in Rotherham, Yorkshire, and Belfast, including attacks on police and a business, has raised concerns about escalating tensions.
In Belfast, petrol was poured over a police vehicle and set alight, resulting in a serious hate crime incident and a 15-year-old being charged with rioting. Additionally, far-right groups are using online spaces to incite violence, with messages targeting minority groups including Jewish people.
In Plymouth, rioting broke out as far-right groups clashed with anti-racism demonstrators, prompting members of the local mosque to take protective measures. The mosque director expressed concerns about the escalating violence in other towns and hired private security for added protection.
Starmer emphasized the importance of supporting the police in maintaining safety and swiftly prosecuting those involved in disorder. The criminal justice system has shown a robust response, with plans for quick sentencing to deter future unrest. Political leaders are urging for calm, while the communities remain on edge amidst fears of further violence.
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