Crowds gather in Bordesley Green after rumours of 'far-right protests'
Crowds gathered in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, last night after rumours circulated online about a far-right rally.
Crowds gathered in a part of Birmingham last night after rumours circulated online about a far-right rally.
These far-right protests have been taking place across the UK in response to a stabbing in Southport on Monday 29 July in which three schoolgirls died.
A TV reporter was forced off air during the gathering last night and Sky News has reported damage to one of its vans.
The news outlet reported its journalists had observed "a large gathering of Muslim men who said they were preparing to 'defend' the street from another rumoured far-right protest in the area."
Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley Jess Phillips said: "All those perpetrating violence will face the consequences no matter who they are."
West Midlands Police issued a statement: "A large number of people did gather in Bordesley, but there were no clashes with members of opposing groups.
"No arrests have been made at this stage but there were sporadic incidents and we are investigating reports of an assault, incidents of criminal damage to a pub on Stoney Lane, a car which had its windows smashed on Alcombe Grove, Stechford and further criminal damage to a vehicle which had its tyres damaged on Belchers Lane, Bordesley Green."
Chief Superintendent Richard North, commander at Birmingham LPA said: “Fortunately rumours of the significant protest activity in the city didn’t materialise. There were several sporadic incidents of criminality during the evening and we will work hard to arrest those responsible.
“We want to reassure you that anyone participating in any criminality on our streets will be dealt with robustly. You will continue to see an increased police presence on our streets over the coming days to offer reassurance to our communities.”
Mayor for the West Midlands Richard Parker said in a statement: "Our region thrives on unity, leaving no room for hate. We will not tolerate criminal behaviour, dangerous extremism, and racist attacks."
Justice Secretary and Ladywood MP, Shabana Mahmood, said those involved in "far-right thuggery" should expect to "face the full force" of the justice system.
In a statement, Ms Mahmood said: "The far-right thuggery we have witnessed on our streets is completely unacceptable and contrary to the British notion of rule of law.
"The Prime Minister has been clear from the outset that those involved should expect to face the full force of our justice system.
"My message to anyone who chooses to take part in this violence is simple. The police, courts and prisons stand ready and you will face the consequences of these appalling acts."