Tensions rise in Norwich over flag displays near mosque
A group putting up Union and St George’s flags near a mosque sparked tensions with local residents, prompting police presence.
Norwich has experienced a second night of rising tensions after a group known as "flaggers" returned to Dereham Road to put up national flags, including Union Jacks and St George’s crosses.
The situation escalated outside Norwich Central Mosque, where a crowd of local residents gathered to oppose the flag displays. Some had already removed flags put up the previous night, saying they were causing fear and division.
Police officers were sent to the scene on Wednesday evening. Eyewitnesses reported that officers escorted the flaggers and stood outside the mosque to prevent conflict.
Later that night, a group returned and stood across the road from the mosque, shouting at those gathered outside.
Some residents described feeling unsafe. One woman, Michelle, said her daughter was frightened by the men outside their home. “They refused to take down a flag near her window and threatened to come back,” she said.
Another local, Amanda, said: “The first time I’ve felt unsafe in 25 years living here was last night.”
Others, like Halim, who attends the mosque, praised neighbours for their support. “The people here are lovely and kind,” he said.
Quin Jianoran, a chef at a nearby pizza restaurant, delivered free pizzas to people outside the mosque. “We just wanted to support our community,” he said.
Police have said it is not a crime to display national flags, but some residents say the behaviour around the flag-raising is aggressive and threatening.
Norfolk Police has been contacted for further comment.