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Anti-racism sweeps UK infographic
Graphic shows timeline of racist riots and anti-racist protests since July 29.
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Anti-racism sweeps the UK after far-right riots

By Duncan Mil

August 8, 2024 - Thousands of police and anti-racist protesters gathered across Britain after more than a week of violent Islamophobic attacks following social media misinformation over a Southport knife attack.

Posts online had claimed far-right, anti-Muslim protesters planned to target as many as 100 immigration centres, migrant support centres and specialist law firms on Wednesday evening, prompting many businesses to close early and some shops to board up windows.

The reports prompted the deployment of thousands of police officers, and crowds of protesters massed in towns and cities, including London, Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool and Sheffield, holding banners saying, “Fight racism,” “Stop the far right,” and “Trade racists for refugees.”

Riots erupted on July 30 when groups of around 300 clashed with police and smashed windows of hotels housing asylum-seekers from Africa, Asia and the Middle East, chanting “get them out” and “stop the boats.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, a former chief prosecutor facing his first crisis since winning the July 4 election, has warned rioters that they will face lengthy jail terms.

“This is the swift action we’re taking. If you provoke violent disorder on our streets or online, you will face the full force of the law,” Starmer said.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council reported 428 arrests for disorder, of which more than 120 people have been charged.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 08/08/2024; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Getty Images, Mersyside Police
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