Watch | Police Van Set Ablaze as Clashes Erupt at Southport Mosque in England
Southport Mosque Clash: Violent Protests Erupt Following Tragic Stabbing Incident
31.07.2024: Tensions soared outside a mosque in Southport on Tuesday evening, resulting in violent clashes between protesters and police. The unrest follows a tragic stabbing incident on Monday, which claimed the lives of three children and injured several others during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event.
Chaos Unfolds: As the atmosphere turned chaotic, protesters began hurling stones, bottles, and other objects at police officers, prompting them to don helmets and riot gear. Riot vans and officers were deployed to manage the escalating situation.
Protesters’ Actions: Chants of “No surrender!” and “English till I die!” echoed from sections of the crowd, believed to be supporters of the English Defence League, according to Merseyside Police. At around 7:45 PM local time, a large group began throwing items towards the mosque on St Luke’s Road in Southport.
Police Response: Officers faced criminal behavior and violence as bottles and wheelie bins were thrown at them. A police van was set on fire, sending plumes of black smoke into the air. Masked and hooded men engaged in running battles with officers as additional police arrived on the scene. Some officers sustained minor injuries, including one with a suspected broken nose. Riot police responded with teargas and charged the crowd to regain control.
Official Statement: Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss condemned the violence, stating, “It is sickening to see this happening within a community that has been devastated by the tragic loss of three young lives.” He emphasized that many individuals involved in the unrest did not belong to the local community and were exploiting the situation for disorder.
Public Advisory: The police continue to urge the public to refrain from spreading misinformation regarding the suspect in custody, who is a 17-year-old boy.