Thursday, 21st November 2024

10 arrested for opposing new "Policy Bill" in the UK

British police arrested 10 people in Bristol on Friday dusk during the third night of protest against a policing bill.

Monday, 29th March 2021

10 arrested for opposing new "Policy Bill" in the UK

British police arrested 10 people in Bristol on Friday dusk during the third night of protest against a policing bill. The Avon and Somerset Police said that more than 1,000 people had gathered from mid-afternoon in the south-eastern English city.

Dogs, horses and a police helicopter were eventually deployed to break up the protest with the operation concluding at 01:00 am local time on Saturday.

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Large public gatherings are currently banned in the UK to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus.

"The majority of people acted quietly; however, there was a youth who once again showed hostility to officers," Superintendent Mark Runacres said.

"Items, including glass of bottles and bricks were thrown at officers, fireworks were launched at our firm section while one of our horses was also covered with paint," he added.

Also read: Sarah Everard Murder: People continue to demand justice in the UK

One of the 10 people detained for offences including violent disorder, assaulting an emergency worker and possession of Class A Drugs has been issued a fine, the other remained in jail on Saturday morning.

The protest was against a contentious bill currently making its way through parliament, granting law enforcing greater power to police or prevent protests. The main opposition Labour Party has said it will oppose it, describing it as a "missed opportunity" to tackle violence against women.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson described the events in Bristol as "mob intent on violence and causing damage to property."

"The police and the city have my full support," he continued.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said she "was disgusted by the disorder" and "the violence being directed towards the police."

"Despite repeated warnings to separate, it's clear these thugs were only intent on causing a trouble. I am receiving getting updates and the police have my full support," she wrote on Twitter.

Police have come under more great scrutiny following the death of Sarah Everard earlier this month.

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The 33-year-old died in South London as she was walking home at night. She was confirmed dead 10 days later after her body was found. A serving police officer was checked and asked with destroying her.

Images of police officers frantically arresting women attending an unauthorised vigil in her fame have caused confusion.