Police Vans In Bristol Set Alight As Protests Turn Violent
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Thousands gathered in the city yesterday afternoon (Sunday 21 March) to protest against the Police and Crime Bill - legislation that would give officers greater powers to constrain protests.
However, by the evening, violent scenes broke out, with police vehicles set alight and fireworks thrown.
One officer sustained a broken arm and another sustained broken ribs, while a police station had its windows smashed and walls daubed with graffiti.
Home secretary Priti Patel said 'thuggery' will never be tolerated.
Unacceptable scenes in Bristol tonight.
Thuggery and disorder by a minority will never be tolerated.
Our police officers put themselves in harms way to protect us all.
My thoughts this evening are with those police officers injured.
- Priti Patel (@pritipatel) March 21, 2021
In a statement shared yesterday evening, Chief Superintendent Will White said those who committed crimes in the city would be brought to justice.
He said: "What started out as a peaceful protest has been turned by a small minority into a violent disorder.
"These scenes are absolutely disgraceful and they will be widely condemned by people across the city. There can never be any excuse for wanton disorder.
"Officers have been subjected to considerable levels of abuse and violence. One suffered a broken arm and another suffered broken ribs. Both have been taken to hospital.
"These are men and women out there with the intention of serving and protecting the public - they should never be subjected to assaults or abuse in this way."
He continued: "At least two police vehicles have been set on fire and damage has been caused to the outside of the station. Protestors are not inside the building.
"We have requested mutual aid from neighbouring forces to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.
"All those involved in this criminal behaviour will be identified and brought to justice. There will be significant consequences for behaviour such as this."
