UK police arrest over 100 as far-right riots grip the country

UK police have arrested at least 116 people across the country this weekend, as far-right riots spiralled into widespread violence following misinformation about the identity of an attacker that stabbed three girls in Stockport last week.

Far-right and anti-immigrant groups are continuing to plan marches and riots in different cities across the UK.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed to protect Muslims from Islamophobic attacks, however mosques have been on high alert and raised concerns over worshippers’ safety since the riots broke out.

The BBC reported on Sunday that mosques would be offered emergency protection amid the ongoing disorder.

In Rotherham, far-right protesters gathered at the Holiday Inn Express hotel and chanted "get them out" on Sunday. Windows and doors were smashed at the hotel, with large bins set alight outside the building.

Police officers with riot shields surrounded the building and are trying to push people back.

Similar riots have taken place in Bolton, Southport and Middlesbrough, where crowds broke through police barriers.

A policing minister told the media that the marches have left people "frightened because of the colour of their skin".

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said he was "utterly appalled by the violence" that took place in Rotherham.

"What we’re seeing is not protest, it is brutal thuggery directed against some of the most vulnerable people in our society," he added, saying that those carrying out the violence will be dealt with using full force of the law.

In Middlesbrough, over 300 people gathered, smashing taxis and forcing local businesses to close early. Police used dogs to hold rioters back, before making arrests.

Anti-Muslim groups in Leeds shouted, "you’re not English anymore" and "paedo Muslims off our street".

In an address on Sunday, Starmer said that "gangs intent on law-breaking and nothing else” were responsible for what was happening in Rotherham, adding "if you target people because of the colour of their skin or faith, that is far-right and I’m prepared to say so."

He vowed to do  "whatever it takes to bring these thugs to justice".

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, said police would have the government’s full support to take strong action, adding “criminal violence and disorder have no place on Britain’s streets.”

"Anyone who gets involved in criminal disorder and violent thuggery on our streets will have to pay the price and they should expect there to be arrests, prosecutions, penalties and the full force of the law including imprisonment and travel bans. There are consequences for breaking the law," she said.

The wave of violent riots come after 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana stabbed three girls and wounded several others and false information about him was shared online, suggesting he was a Muslim or an illegal immigrant.