UK police urged to step up security for mosques amid rise in far-right rallies

Police in England are being urged to bolster security around mosques and asylum seeker accommodations in light of at least 19 planned far-right rallies following violent protests sparked by a tragic stabbing incident at a children’s holiday club, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

The unrest, which has spread from Southport to cities including London, Hartlepool, Manchester, and Aldershot, was fueled by false online rumors alleging that the suspect, identified as 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, was Muslim.

Demonstrators have targeted mosques and asylum seeker facilities, brandishing placards with slogans such as “deport them, don’t support them.” In central London, protests escalated with participants throwing flares and cans while chanting nationalist slogans.

In response to the chaos, Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened an emergency meeting with police leaders at Downing Street, announcing the establishment of a new national violent disorder unit. This unit aims to enhance intelligence gathering on extremist groups and improve coordination across regions to effectively manage and prevent further riots. Community leaders are calling for immediate action to protect vulnerable communities amidst rising tensions.