Southport Unrest: The town of Southport witnessed a violent disturbance following a peaceful vigil held to honor the victims of a tragic knife attack at a local dance school. The attack on Monday resulted in the deaths of three young girls and injuries to eight other children. According to Patrick Hurley, the town’s MP, the violence was instigated by “thugs” who traveled to Southport with the intent of exploiting the tragedy for their own political purposes. The unrest, which occurred close to a mosque, led to numerous injuries among police officers and the setting of a fire in a police van.
violence, The Merseyside Police Federation’s Chris McGlade reported that over 50 officers were hurt in what he described as a “sustained and vicious attack.” The violent vigil believed to involve supporters of the English Defence League, erupted despite the peaceful nature of the vigil held earlier that evening.
Patrick Hurley condemned the actions of the rioters, stating they had “hijacked the grief” of the community and families affected by the knife attack. He emphasized that those responsible were not locals but individuals who had come from outside the town. The rioters threw bricks, bottles, fireworks, and rocks at police officers, forcing them to don protective gear and use riot shields. A police vehicle was also set on fire during the chaos.
0:39: Police attack as disorder breaks out in Southport
Merseyside Police, supported by forces from Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Lancashire, and North Wales, managed to contain the situation. Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss described the violence as “sickening,” especially given the community’s recent tragedy. He praised the bravery of both on-duty and off-duty officers who faced the attacks.
The violence was reportedly fueled by social media posts that falsely linked the knife attack to Islamist motives. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had previously warned against such disinformation. The 17-year-old suspect arrested for the knife attack has no known ties to Islam, and police urged the public to avoid speculation.
Southport Mosque chairman Ibrahim Hussein recounted the harrowing experience of trying to secure the mosque amid the violence. The rioters smashed windows, burned fences, and threw burning objects at the building. The North West Ambulance Service reported that 27 officers were taken to the hospital, with 12 treated and discharged at the scene.
In response to the unrest, a 24-hour Section 60 Order was implemented, granting police additional stop and search powers. A Section 34 Order was also introduced, allowing police to disperse individuals engaging in or likely to engage in antisocial behavior.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the violence, stating that those who disrupted the vigil would “feel the full force of the law.” He expressed solidarity with the grieving community of Southport and commended the police for their bravery and dedication.
As the clean-up begins, the community of Southport remains in shock and mourning. The tragic events have left a deep impact, and the recent violence has only compounded the suffering of those affected by the knife attack. Authorities continue to investigate and ensure the safety and support of the residents during this difficult time.