A police car was set ablaze and eight individuals were arrested following a tumultuous night of rioting in Sunderland on Friday night. Northumbria Police reported that offences ranged from violent disorder to burglary as they battled to control a crowd of several hundred protesters.
It is the latest episode of unrest to break out across the country following the killing of three young girls in Southport on Monday
Three police officers were injured and taken to the hospital, with one already discharged. The unrest saw a building set alight, and a car overturned and set on fire as officers faced attacks from protestors armed with beer cans and stones.
The protestors, some wearing balaclavas and draped in England flags, converged in the city centre and near a mosque on St Mark’s Road. The scenes were described as “utterly deplorable” by Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, who led the policing operation.
Nick Lowles from Hope Not Hate commented on social media, attributing the violence to a far-right and racist protest, stating, “Shame on all those who continue to excuse these protests.”
Initial reports suggested a police building was set on fire, but later updates confirmed it was that the police building was ransacked while the Citizens Advice premises next door to it was set alight. The rioters also set off fire extinguishers against police officers.
The disorder, reportedly spurred by far-right activists on social media, began at the newly refurbished Keel Square. Social media footage captured young men throwing stones and shouting “Whose streets? Our streets” along with Islamophobic chants.
In contrast, counter-protests led by Stand Up to Racism in Bradford and Liverpool remained peaceful.
Chief Superintendent Barron condemned the violence: “The shocking scenes we have witnessed in Sunderland this evening are completely unacceptable. The safety of the public is our utmost priority… Anyone involved in the disorder we have seen can expect to be dealt with robustly.”
Eight people have been arrested, and a full investigation is underway to identify further offenders. Barron also stressed the importance of lawful protest and warned against using such events to commit crimes.
Sunderland Council Leader Cllr Michael Mordey denounced the violence: “What unfolded in Sunderland City Centre last night was disgusting… It was an organised riot incited by far-right thugs whose sole purpose was to incite racial hatred and cause criminal damage.
“Let’s be clear it was not a protest it was an organised riot incited by far-right thugs whose sole purpose was to incite racial hatred and cause criminal damage.
“No one with legitimate grievances turns up with weapons and wearing balaclavas to a “peaceful protest” and then proceeds to smash up a city they claim to love
“Northumbria Police have my full support in tracking down these cowards masquerading as patriots and ensuring that they face the full force of the law.”
Mordey emphasised that the overwhelming majority of Sunderland’s residents are welcoming and honest, condemning the actions of the rioters as unrepresentative of the city.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness echoed these sentiments: “I’m appalled by scenes from Sunderland. Make no mistake, if your response to tragedy is to use it to commit violence… you stand for nothing except thuggery.”
Northumbria Police have urged anyone with information on the perpetrators to come forward, providing contact options through social media, their website, or by calling 101.
This incident highlights a disturbing trend of violence and disorder that has recently marred parts of the UK, and authorities are calling for unity and peace in response to these divisive actions.
