Dorset police prepared for protests this weekend
They say they're aware of planned anti-immigration and anti-racism protests on Sunday
Last updated 15th Aug 2024
Dorset Police are reassuring communities that they're prepared to prevent disorder and enable peaceful protests this weekend.
The Force say it's fully aware of protests that are due to take place in at least one town centre on Sunday.
They say they have robust plans in place to deal with any reports of public disorder.
Officers have been liaising with the organisers to ensure people can exercise their right to protest legally and safely, while minimising the impact on residents, visitors and businesses.
The approach to this event has involved partner agencies from across Dorset working together and all are committed to ensuring our communities are kept safe.
"We are there to protect you and to enable peaceful protests to take place"
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “We understand that members of the public may be feeling concerned about the planned protest activity following the unacceptable violence that has been seen elsewhere across the country.
“I would like to reassure the public that we have been moving at pace to ensure we have all available resources in place to respond to any reports of disorder. This has included drafting in resources from other forces and these dedicated and specially trained public order officers will be on duty working tirelessly to ensure there is no significant disruption to the public.
He goes on say people can expect to see a heightened police presence: "We are there to protect you and to enable peaceful protests to take place. We also have officers and staff who will be answering the usual calls from the public, responding to incidents and investigating offences.
“Our local neighbourhood policing teams, alongside staff from the Council, have this week been liaising with the business community in the town and key community groups to listen to concerns and reassure them of our robust policing plans. This will continue as we head toward the weekend.
“While we will enable safe and lawful protests, I want to make it absolutely clear that anyone intent on being involved in criminality on our streets will be dealt with swiftly and robustly. Offenders will be arrested and brought before the courts, and in conjunction with the Crown Prosecution Service, we will seek the highest level of sentence.
“There is simply no place for racism, hatred or violence in Dorset and we will do all we can, while working with our partner agencies, to tackle any disorder.”