Six arrests and one person charged following disorder in Rotherham
Police say more arrests will be made
Six arrests have been made, and one person has been charged, following violent disorder outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham on Sunday (4th August).
Assistant Chief Constable Lindsey Butterfield, of South Yorkshire Police, said: "So far we have had six arrests, one in Sheffield and five in Rotherham, with one person already charged before the court this morning.
"Please be assured, we expect this number to increase significantly in the coming days."
She branded the disorder caused by some 750 "far-right and anti-immigration" protesters outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham "a disgusting display of thuggery".
Ms Butterfield said an initial group of 250 people had arrived on Sunday morning, with an additional 500 joining them shortly afterwards.
She said the police believe they "held far-right and anti-immigration views".
"At the same time, a large crowd began to gather in Sheffield city centre, diverting a large number of force resources," Ms Butterfield added.
Speaking of the violence outside a hotel in Rotherham, she said: "There was a particularly sickening moment when a wheelie bin was pushed against the hotel and set on fire with the clear intent to cause serious harm to the residents and staff. It was known there were people residing and working in the hotel but the mindless individuals responsible had absolutely no regard for their safety.
"It was ultimately a disgusting display of thuggery, continuing well into the evening, with our policing operation only finishing around 5am.
"I want to say a heartfelt thanks to all those involved from South Yorkshire Police, and the many forces who provided us with mutual aid, and our partners in fire, the ambulance service and local partners for their continued support. I would also like to thank those who have already sent kind messages to the force.
"Officers have worked through the night to begin identifying those involved in these horrendous scenes. Please be assured, if you were there, we will find you, and you will be held accountable for your part in yesterday’s violence.
"To our local communities, and particularly in Manvers. Yesterday was a dark day and we know this was felt across the county. Our priority will always be public safety and you will see an increase of officers across South Yorkshire over the coming weeks.
"Finally, we will be sharing a link for anyone with footage from yesterday they would like to share with us, or you can report anonymously with Crimestoppers. Thank you."