British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has offered his full backing to police chiefs following a series of violent far-right protests in response to a stabbing spree in Southport. Three girls were killed in the attack, sparking outrage and demonstrations fueled by misinformation against Muslims and immigrants.
Starmer called an emergency meeting with police leaders to ensure they have government support in addressing the violent incidents occurring on the streets. While the right to peaceful protest is respected, those criminals spreading hatred and carrying out violent acts will face the full force of the law.
The suspect, a 17-year-old not named due to his age, appeared in court facing three counts of murder and 10 of attempted murder. The stabbing has been exploited by far-right activists to incite anger, leading to protests in London, Hartlepool, and Manchester.
In London, protesters surrounded Downing Street, throwing objects and causing damage. In Hartlepool, police cars were set on fire, and bottles were thrown at officers. Similar disturbances were reported in Manchester.
The violence follows clashes in Southport, where police officers were injured, and a mosque was targeted by far-right groups linked to football hooliganism. The incidents highlight the ongoing issue of far-right extremism in the UK and the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public safety.
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