On Sunday, the UK government announced plans to deploy additional emergency security teams to protect vulnerable mosques, following widespread unrest and numerous arrests at far-right rallies. The disturbances were fueled by false information about a mass stabbing that claimed the lives of three young girls last week, leading to clashes between anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters across various cities.
Approximately 90 people were detained after violent skirmishes erupted in several English cities, including Liverpool, Manchester, Bristol, Blackpool, Hull, and Belfast in Northern Ireland. Rioters were reported to have thrown bricks, bottles, and flares at police, causing injuries to several officers, looted and set fire to shops, and shouted anti-Islamic slurs.
In response to the escalating violence, the UK government unveiled a plan to enhance security for mosques at risk. The new rapid response process will allow for the deployment of additional security personnel to these places of worship, supplementing the efforts of local police forces. This measure aims to provide communities with essential support and reassurance, facilitating a swift return to worship.
UK Interior Minister Yvette Cooper condemned the violent actions of the rioters, including attacks on police officers and looting, and affirmed that such behavior would be met with the full force of the law. She highlighted that the government is committed to protecting Muslim communities and that targeted attacks on these communities will not be tolerated.
The government also announced that the new security arrangements are already in place, offering increased protection to mosques nationwide. The scheme remains open for general applications, encouraging eligible institutions to apply for additional security.
Earlier, policing minister Diana Johnson emphasized that the rioting would not be tolerated and that penalties would follow for those responsible. The unrest, which marks the fourth day of disturbances, was sparked by a knife attack in Southport and exacerbated by misleading social media rumors about the suspect, Axel Rudakubana. Rudakubana, who is charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder, is accused of killing Bebe King, 6, Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, and injuring ten others.
Police have linked the violence to supporters of the English Defence League, an anti-Islam group associated with football hooliganism. The agitation has prompted hundreds of Islamic centers to enhance security in response to fears for worshippers’ safety.
This unrest poses a significant challenge for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who assumed office last month after leading Labour to a decisive victory over the Conservatives. Starmer has condemned the “thugs” who have exploited national grief to incite hatred and has pledged that violent perpetrators will face legal consequences. Following discussions with senior ministers, he reiterated government support for the police to ensure public safety. Police have warned of potential further demonstrations.
