A police officer was punched in the face as anti-asylum protests outside hotels housing migrants escalated on Sunday, according to the Metropolitan Police. Tensions flared across east London and Essex, leading to multiple arrests and heightened security measures.
Four Arrests Made as Clashes Erupt Near Britannia Hotel
The Metropolitan Police confirmed four arrests following violent clashes near the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf, which is currently accommodating asylum seekers. Offences included:
- Assaulting a police officer
- Possession of drugs
- Public order offences
- Failure to comply with dispersal orders
Police reported that one officer was punched but did not suffer serious injuries.
Anti-Migration and Counter-Protesters Clash
An estimated 20 to 50 anti-migration protesters faced off against around 100 counter-protesters, resulting in chaotic scenes. Witnesses described verbal abuse, physical altercations, and harassment of workers inside the nearby shopping centre.
Emma Miah, a 21-year-old law student working at a stall, described the situation as “terrifying,” saying:
“They were heckling us, all these old white men, telling us to go home. Some protesters even jumped on counters and threw food around.”
Protests Triggered by Bell Hotel Controversy
The unrest comes after the Court of Appeal lifted an injunction preventing the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, from housing asylum seekers after 12 September. The hotel became a focal point for anger following the July arrest of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an asylum seeker charged with sexual assault.
Chants of “our kids,” “our streets,” and “send them back” were heard outside the Britannia Hotel. In one disturbing incident, a child was found carrying Pava spray, which had been discharged.
Police Use Emergency Powers
In response to escalating violence, police enforced a Section 60AA order, allowing officers to demand the removal of face coverings and arrest those refusing. A Section 35 dispersal order was later issued, forcing protesters to leave key areas.
By 4:30pm, a masked group carrying flags entered the underground shopping centre, causing panic among shoppers and workers. Officers quickly intervened to restore order.
Flares, Arrests and Dispersal Orders at Bell Hotel
On Sunday evening, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Bell Hotel, lighting flares and chanting despite a police order to leave by 8pm. Essex Police confirmed at least three arrests and enforced a dispersal order restricting banners with “offensive or inflammatory language.”
Metropolitan Police Vow Firm Action
Commander Adam Slonecki, who led policing efforts over the weekend, said:
“We had plenty of officers on the ground who moved swiftly to deal with the criminality inside and outside the shopping centre. Our priority was to ensure the safety of all community members, including women and children, attending the protest.”
