Police say a group of counter protesters were ‘intent on causing disorder’
A major police presence is ongoing in Bristol city centre this afternoon as a huge crowd of protesters and counter-protesters demonstrate outside a hotel housing asylum seekers(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach PLC)
Five people have been arrested after protests at a hotel housing asylum seekers in Bristol city centre.
Anti-immigration demonstrators calling themselves ‘Bristol Patriots’ and counter-protesters clashed in Redcliffe this afternoon (Nov 15) outside a hotel.
UKIP leader Nick Tenconi met with press and protesters in Bristol, where he called the city a “communist-run hell hole” and a “wonderful town” in the same breath.
Avon & Somerset Police said five people in total were arrested at the demonstration and one police officer is in hospital, having sustained injuries during the operation.
Four people were arrested following reports of assaults on police officers. A fifth was arrested for failing to provide their details while officers were enforcing protest management conditions.
UKIP leader Nick Tenconi has also attended, describing Bristol as a “Communist-run hellhole”(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach PLC)
Chief Inspector Keith Smith said: “It is disappointing a group within the counter protest has seemingly been intent on causing disorder. We’ve made several arrests and ordered a number of counter-protesters to leave central Bristol.
“I want to thank the officers who have worked tirelessly today to enable both protests to be kept separate, but it is totally unacceptable that officers have been assaulted. Criminal investigations will be carried out into each incident as we seek to bring those responsible to justice.
“One officer has been taken to hospital for injuries they sustained while on duty. We await a further update regarding the level of injury.
“We will ensure the welfare of assaulted officers is prioritised too.”
A dispersal zone and enhanced powers remain in place until 10pm.