Keir Starmer announces new violent disorder unit as police brace for more riots
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Sir Keir Starmer has revealed plans to establish a new nationwide police unit to address violent chaos. He has promised to end the recent outbursts of unrest orchestrated by far-right troublemakers on UK streets.
The leader of the country called a meeting with top police officials at the government headquarters on Thursday before making the decision, following another night of unrest caused by a large-scale stabbing incident in Southport.
Law enforcement agencies all over the UK are preparing for more far-right demonstrations happening this coming weekend. There are discussions happening online about protests in cities like Manchester and Middlesbrough.
The latest department will discuss how to handle rioters in a similar way to football troublemakers, according to Starmer's announcement on Thursday. They will explore the possibility of implementing criminal behavior orders that could limit their ability to move freely, similar to how actions are taken against football hooligans.
This will also promote better sharing of information among police departments and more widespread use of facial recognition technology.
Starmer criticized the behavior of a small group of individuals in our community and expressed gratitude to the police officers who have bravely faced intimidation and violence following the initial stabbing incident on Monday.
The prime minister recognized that the current issue is primarily fueled by extreme right-wing hatred. However, he stated that the newly established unit will address any violent disturbances, regardless of their apparent cause or motivation.
Starmer made his remarks shortly after the identity of the individual believed to be responsible for the Southport attack was revealed as Axel Muganwa Rudakubana. Rudakubana was born in the UK to parents who had moved from Rwanda.
In a recent hearing at Liverpool Crown Court, Judge Andrew Menary removed restrictions on reporting. Rudakubana, who is being held in youth custody, is facing charges of three murders, 10 attempted murders, and possession of a knife.
The teenager was caught on Monday close to where the mass stabbing occurred in north-west England. This was the most serious incident involving children in the UK in many years.
Three young girls ages six, seven, and nine lost their lives in the assault on a dance class inspired by Taylor Swift. Additionally, ten other individuals, predominantly children, were hurt, leading to a series of furious demonstrations.
Rudakubana's identity, which was kept confidential due to his age, was a hot topic of discussion and false information on social media.
Certain articles have connected him with Islam or implied that he had recently come to the UK by boat seeking asylum.
Menary mentioned that Rudakubana will be turning 18 on August 7. Menary also stated that by not fully reporting on the situation, it allows for misinformation to be spread by others.
In his statement on Thursday, Starmer warned big social media companies that inciting violence online is illegal and occurring on their platforms. He stated that the government will do everything needed to ensure our streets remain safe.
When questioned about the consequences he would be willing to enforce on social media companies that do not eliminate false information that incites chaos, Starmer mentioned the importance of finding a "correct equilibrium" through discussion.
A date has been scheduled for Rudakubana's trial at Liverpool Crown Court. This hearing will include a plea and preparation for the trial.
Serena Kennedy, the top police officer in Merseyside, mentioned that while the charges were a big step forward, the investigation is still ongoing. She stated that they are collaborating with Lancashire Police and Counter Terrorism Policing North West.
The Metropolitan police reported that over 100 protesters were taken into custody following confrontations outside the prime minister's official home and workplace on Wednesday evening.
A group of demonstrators hurled fireworks and bottles at law enforcement, chanting anti-immigrant and Islamophobic phrases similar to those heard in Southport the previous evening. Over 50 officers sustained injuries during the protest, which also included an attack on a nearby mosque and the destruction of police and civilian vehicles.
On Wednesday night, there were serious disruptions in Hartlepool, a town located in the north-east of England. Police officers with riot shields were met by a large group of protesters who were throwing objects at them.
