Police office set on fire and three officers taken to hospital following rioting in Sunderland
It comes after rioters took to the city centre streets following a planned protest linked to the Southport knife attack.
Last updated 3rd Aug 2024
Eight people have been arrested after riots broke out in Sunderland last night, linked to the Southport knife attack on Monday which killed three young girls.
Hundreds of people gathered in Keel Square, and members of the crowd could be heard chanting in support of right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, while others shouted insults about Islam.
Many protestors could be seen draped in England flags as they marched through the streets.
Violence erupted, with some setting an overturned car on fire, while others threw stones and beer cans at riot police.
Videos posted on social media appeared to show a police station on fire.
There was also a standoff between police and protesters outside a mosque on St Mark's Road.
Some protesters argued about "two-tier policing" as the police threw a protective ring around the mosque.
Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron said in a statement: "I want to make it absolutely clear that the disorder, violence and damage which has occurred will not be tolerated.
The safety of the public is our utmost priority and when we became aware that a protest had been planned, we ensured there was an increased policing presence in the city.
During the course of the evening, those officers were met with serious and sustained levels of violence, which is utterly deplorable.
In the face of these attacks, they showed unwavering commitment for which I wholeheartedly thank them, as I am certain the overwhelming majority of people in Sunderland will also."
Ms Barron also said "The right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy, which the police uphold.
However, we will not accept people using them as a means to commit crime.
We want to be clear anyone planning to involve themselves in disorder in the future should stay at home."
Sunderland Central MP Lewis Atkinson took to social media saying he was appalled by the violent scenes, and that "our city is not represented by a tiny minority causing trouble."
He also said "Northumbria Police have my full support as they respond to criminal thuggery and work to protect all the communities of our city.
Tomorrow the people of Sunderland will come together and continue to build the bright future that we have - a future where every community of our city feels safe and prospers."
Police say three police officers were also taken to hospital with injuries, one has since been discharged.
A full investigation is now underway with police saying anyone involved in the disorder can expect to be dealt with "robustly."