“It is more important than ever that we stand together and focus on what unites us”

Following last night’s (June 2) widely reported disorder focused around Portswood’s Belmont Road area, during which 11 officers and a dog were injured, both the police and Southampton City Council have issued statements condemning the behaviour.

St Denys Road by Belmont Road at around 12.30am on Tuesday, strewn with debris. Photo: Taliesin Henty-Dodd

 

 

 

Action followed the murder of student Henry Nowak in December 2025 and the subsequent release of a chilling police body worn video, leading to accusations of “racism” against the force.

It came after Nowak’s family reportedly said: “We do not want his death to be used to create further division, hatred or tension. We want his story to help make our streets safer for everyone.”

A joint statement from council leader Cllr Sarah Bogle and communities cabinet member Cllr Toqeer Kataria said events were “deeply concerning” and recognised many residents “will be feeling unsettled” this morning.

“Our thoughts remain first and foremost with the family and friends of Henry Nowak. His death was an appalling and unforgivable crime and has had a profound impact across our city,” they said.

“There is no excuse for the kind of violence and disorder we saw last night. While there are understandably strong views about the police's handling of Henry Nowak’s murder, it is important that we allow the IOPC to conduct a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation so that the facts are clearly established.”

The leaders added that “those commenting from outside our city should take care not to use language that could inflame tensions”.

They said council crews were out clearing the damage, and concluded: “At times like this, it is more important than ever that we stand together and focus on what unites us”.

Hampshire police chief constable Alexis Boon said: "We understand and appreciate as police officers that we are accountable for our actions. What we ask, however, is that those actions are judged through fair and transparent processes. In this case, that process is already underway with the IOPC conducting their independent investigation.

He added: "I know how intimidating the scenes from last night must have been for those living and working in the area and to you, I must stress, we have incredibly experienced teams of officers who are working around the clock to keep you safe - that is our absolute priority.

He added: "I know that since the release of the body-worn video footage from the night of Henry Nowak’s murder, there is a desire for answers and accountability but that must be done in the right way and not used as an excuse to threaten and intimidate my officers and bring violence to our streets causing fear and harm to those living and working in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight."

The force said two arrests were made on Tuesday evening, with the number set to rise following investigations.

A local social media group urged residents to stay safe indoors during the protest, which took place at the scene of the murder, a stone’s throw from Portswood Police Station.