Herts Police Respond to Rumors of Planned Protests Tonight
Hertfordshire Police have responded to rumours of protests tonight. Amid reports of more than 100 planned nationwide protests, Hertfordshire Police have been actively patrolling the county. These patrols come after a week of riots across England following the tragic killings of three girls in Southport.
In Walthamstow, Anti-racism Counter-protesters gathered to confront a perceived threat from Anti-Immigration’ planned protests. This was mirrored in Brentford, Hackney, Bristol, Portsmouth, Derby, Birmingham, Newcastle, Brighton, Aldershot and Liverpool.
More Anti-racism marches are planned for Sat 17 Aug, but the London location has not been announced.
In London demonstrations are feared in Harrow, Hounslow, Finchley and Walthamstow, with counter-protests also expected in the capital.
SECTION 60
Met Police have authorised Section 60 powers between 2pm on Wednesday, 7 August and 2am on Thursday, 8 August across parts of Waltham Forest, Hillingdon and Harrow as we prepare to deal with any potential disorder.
The wards covered are Pinner, Pinner South, Rayners Lane, Roxbourne, Roxeth, Hatch End, Headstone, North Harrow, West Harrow, Harrow on the Hill, Marlborough, Wealdstone North, Wealdstone South, Harrow Weald, Northwood Hills, Eastcote, and South Ruislip.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has warned rioters “we will come after you” as three men have been jailed at Liverpool Crown Court for their parts in violent disorder.
Across the country, police forces have deployed thousands of officers across England and Wales. The situation remains tense as more than 100 planned protests are expected today. The most since the riots of 2011. Officers also expect more than 30 counter-protests, as 6,000 riot officers prepare for another evening of potential unrest.
Herts Chief Superintendent Ruth Dodsworth reassured residents and businesses that neighbourhood policing teams are working hard to keep people safe. She also highlighted the dangers of disinformation in the current climate and urged anyone to report any criminal behaviour.
“I would like to reassure Hertfordshire residents and businesses that your neighbourhood policing teams are here alongside you, working hard in the community to reassure people and keep them safe,” said Chief Superintendent Ruth Dodsworth, of Hertfordshire Constabulary.
“Hertfordshire is a safe county and we want people to feel safe to go about their lives as normal. Across the country policing is always prepared to tackle any problems and Hertfordshire is no different.”
House of Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has even advised MPs to consider working from home.
While the situation is fast-moving, police sources indicate that the north-west and north-east regions are expected to be worst hit tonight.
In a statement, MP Matt Turmaine emphasized the importance of unity and mutual respect in the community, particularly among Muslim and minority groups.
Additionally, earlier this month, armed officers responded to a violent disturbance in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, where two arrests were made after an altercation involving a small group of males and a weapon.
Total Charged Over Recent Unrest:
- More than 140 people have been charged in connection with the riots across England and Wales.
- Police forces are preparing for over 100 possible events today
A Section 60 order has been extended in Liverpool city centre following last weekend’s riots.
