Clean-up and condemnation after violent clashes in Southport
The community, already shaken, has been left reeling after violent disorder last night
Last updated 31st Jul 2024
A huge clean-up operation is underway in Southport after violent disorder broke out on the streets overnight.
Just before 8pm, a large group of people began to throw items towards a local mosque on St Luke’s Road.
Later riot police were called in after police vans were torched and dozens of officers injured.
Residents have come out onto the streets today to help with the clear-up operation.
The violence has been widely condemned by people across the region and further afield.
Those who hijacked vigil "will feel the full force of the law."
The Prime Minister posted on social media last night to say:
"The people of Southport are reeling after the horror inflicted on them yesterday.
"They deserve our support and our respect.
"Those who have hijacked the vigil for the victims with violence and thuggery have insulted the community as it grieves.
"They will feel the full force of the law."
Police officers should "go home after their shift, not to hospital"
Meanwhile the Chair of Merseyside Police Federation has said:
"Merseyside is reeling from an unimaginable tragedy. An incident that has left us all shocked as human beings.
"We are equally shocked as police officers.
"The very same courageous officers who are themselves trying to come to terms with what has happened in Southport this week came under a sustained and vicious attack last night.
"It is utterly disgusting that more than 50 police officers were injured.
"Brave colleagues have been left with fractures, lacerations, a suspected broken nose and concussion.
"I utterly condemn the actions of these mindless and violent thugs - and they will be brought to justice for their actions.
"The Federation are supporting our injured colleagues at this horrific time and send them our best wishes - as I know the rest of the country will do.
"Police officers are not robots. We are mothers and fathers. Sons and daughters. Husbands, wives and partners.
"We should be going home at the end of our shifts."
"Not to hospital."