Oxfordshire's police force issues statement following national disorder
Officers say they're working with local and national partners
Last updated 7th Aug 2024
Ahead of more protests and fears of potential disruption, Thames Valley Police say:
"We are working closely with local and national partners and are monitoring a variety of sources including social media and reports from the public to identify planned protest or disruption in our area, and will keep local communities up to date with the latest information.
"Should any planned protests or spontaneous incidents escalate into violent disorder seen elsewhere in the country, we are prepared and officers will swiftly and robustly respond and deal with those choosing to cause harm to our communities.
"Please be vigilant to the misleading comments that are circulating social media about potential protest activity. Please think twice about what you read, share and believe from online sources. There are a lot of motivations for why people may be sharing information so be critical, challenge what you see and if in doubt, look to trusted voices."
Assistant Chief Constable Christian Bunt said:
“I recognise that the disorder seen across the country will cause concern amongst our communities as well as our own officers and staff.
“We have well-rehearsed plans in place to deal with any issues that may arise and will take the most robust stance possible against violence, hatred and discrimination of any kind to hold those who choose to cause harm to our communities accountable for their actions.
“Our intelligence teams are working hard to monitor a number of sources to spot misinformation and suggestions of protests and investigating where necessary.
“Please be reassured that our neighbourhood officers are continuing to patrol local communities, so if you have any concerns, or if you see them out and about, please do speak with them.
“If you see or hear anything suspicious, please contact us. We know our communities don’t want disorder on their doorstep – no one should be fearful to leave the house, go to a place of worship or live in a given area. You have our full support and that of our partners.”
Meanwhile, we've been around Cowley Road in Oxford where our reporter Callum McIntyre says he's been close to the city's Central Mosque where he's seen 'colourful love hearts drawn in chalk with messages of hope not hate'.
Those officers seen presenting a security presence say they're here to reassure the community, in the wake of unrest seen elsewhere.