In a night of chaos, Sunderland experienced significant unrest as hundreds of rioters clashed with police, resulting in injuries and property damage. On Friday night, Northumbria Police reported “serious and sustained levels of violence” as three officers were injured, requiring hospital treatment. The unrest saw a police building ransacked and a nearby Citizens Advice office set on fire, with beer cans and bricks hurled at riot police stationed outside a mosque. Cars were also set ablaze, contributing to the widespread disorder.
This incident is part of a troubling wave of unrest across England following the tragic killing of three young girls in Southport earlier in the week. Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron condemned the violence, stating that a full investigation is underway to identify and hold accountable those involved in the criminal behavior. She emphasized that such actions would not be tolerated.
The scene was marked by Islamophobic slurs and chants in support of far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Some rioters bore symbols associated with extremist groups, highlighting a disturbing undercurrent of hate. Mounted police and riot officers struggled to contain the crowds, who shouted slogans such as “Whose streets? Our streets.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper vowed that those responsible for the violence would “pay the price,” while Mayor of the North East, Kim McGuinness, lamented the significant damage to the city, including looted shops and burned vehicles. Sunderland AFC condemned the actions, affirming the city’s values of togetherness and acceptance.
In a related development, anti-racist protesters gathered outside the Abdullah Quilliam Mosque in Liverpool in response to rumors of a far-right protest, chanting, “Say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here.” The Director of Public Prosecutions, Stephen Parkinson, announced that additional prosecutors were working over the weekend to expedite justice for those involved in the riots.
The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, announced a new national violent disorder programme to address the spread of violence, enabling police forces to share intelligence and respond more effectively. He condemned the online incitement of violence and pledged that the government would take all necessary actions to maintain public safety.
As tensions continue to simmer, authorities remain on high alert, with additional protests anticipated across the UK over the weekend.