"We will not tolerate any disorder" say Police, amid Bristol protest reports
Online reports suggest a protest is planned in Bristol on Saturday, in response to the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport
Police in Bristol say they are aware of plans for a protest in the city on Saturday, which they say may cause disruption, following the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport on Monday.
Several protests have taken place across the country, some of which have descended into violence, after rumours spread online about the identity of the suspect.
A 17-year-old charged with murder in connection with Monday's tragedy has since been named as Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, from Banks in Lancashire.
In a statement released this afternoon Avon and Somerset Police say they have been granted enhanced stop and search powers for parts of south, central and northern Bristol in anticipation of action on Saturday.
"While we will facilitate peaceful and lawful protest, we will not tolerate any disorder or behaviour which negatively affects the safety of our communities," the statement reads.
"We’ve been in regular contact with our partners and stakeholders, including faith leaders, in the days since Monday’s tragic incident in Southport and the subsequent scenes of disorder we’ve seen in other towns and cities.
"Robust and well-rehearsed policing plans are in place and we’ll use all the powers available to us to keep our communities safe."
Enhanced stop and search powers will be in use from midday on Saturday until 6am on Sunday.
A Section 35 dispersal zone has also been authorised for the same area during the same time period.
That will give officers powers to move on groups or individuals causing - or who are likely to cause - harassment, alarm or distress to others.
Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen said: "We will not tolerate any form of disorder or criminal behaviour and there will be a significant policing presence in the city tomorrow, both as a precaution and for reassurance.
"While we’ll always look to facilitate peaceful protest, we will take action when behaviour impacts on the rights of our communities.
"The powers we have pre-authorised will be in place to ensure this can be done swiftly and effectively.
"I would encourage anyone who has any concerns to speak to an officer."