By Natalia Forero, Local Democracy Reporter
A senior police officer has warned “violent disorder will not be tolerated” ahead of a planned anti-immigration protest in Southampton, urging people not to turn the “lawful right to peaceful protest” into an opportunity “to commit criminal acts”.
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Two protests will take place in Southampton city centre today (August 7). One is an anti-immigration protest set to take place in Grosvenor Square while a counter-demonstration organised by Southampton Stand Up To Racism will be at The Peace Fountain in East Park.
Chief superintendent Tony Rowlinson, who is overseeing the policing response for Hampshire Constabulary, said: “Across the country in recent days, we have seen some of the worst violent disorder in the last decade, and I know the thought of this happening where you live or work could be causing you worry and distress.
“I know the desire to counter this activity is strong, but please can I ask you to allow us to manage this and take the appropriate police action where required.
“The message is really simple, do not seek to turn the lawful right to peaceful protest into an opportunity to commit criminal acts. This will not be tolerated.
“Actions have consequences, and we will use the powers available to us to deal with those who cause damage to our communities and threaten the safety of our residents.”
He said that residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight expect to “feel safe”, and they have worked hard to take “swift, decisive and robust” action against anybody seeking to engage in “deplorable behaviour.”
“Local residents in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight expect to feel safe and do not want to see this kind of mindless violence in our communities,” he said.
“In recent days, our local neighbourhood officers have been out on patrol, particularly in areas where we know our communities are feeling vulnerable, making sure we are hearing your concerns and providing as much support as we can to residents and businesses.
“We have also been working closely with our partners and local agencies, who are also supporting us in providing reassurance to their local communities.
“There has been key work ongoing to review any and all intelligence available to us, and also ensure the right officers, with the right capabilities, are available today and in the coming days to deal with any incidents, should they occur.”
Businesses in the city centre are set to close earlier to prevent any harm to their staff. Among them are Cafe Thrive in Hanover Building, Edison’s Cafe on the High Street and Fit 4 Her gym on London Road.
Southampton City Council has also said all city libraries will be closing at 5pm this evening.
City councillors and local MPs have warned residents to be careful and avoid the protest area to ensure their safety.
The protests follow similar demonstrations across the country, including in Rotherham, Sunderland and Southport, where ugly scenes have unfolded and police officers injured.
Council leader issues statement ahead of possible city protest
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