Police presence remains in Hull as 20 arrested

A strong and visible police presence remains in Hull City Centre this evening dealing with a large group of individuals who have been intent on causing chaos and disorder following a demonstration that took place earlier this afternoon (Saturday 3 August).

Vehicles and local businesses have been subjected to extensive criminal damage including arson at one shop, in addition to fires started in wheelie bins and a number of tyres set alight, in and around the Ferensway, Jameson Street, Spring Bank and Grey Street areas. All fires have now been extinguished.

Assistant Chief Constable Mike Walker said: “A total of 20 people have been arrested for various public order offences throughout the afternoon and evening, and to be clear, this enforcement  action is going to continue as we will not tolerate mindless violence and disorder in our city.

“The right to lawful protest is a part of democracy, which my officers upheld, however we will not accept the senseless vandalism, antisocial behaviour and sheer violence that has been brought to our streets.

“We have mutual aid from other police forces strengthening our resilience and determination to bring those who are intent on causing disruption and chaos to an end.

“Our officers go above and beyond to protect the safety of our community day in and day out, they should never be subjected to the scenes we have seen today, with ten officers suffering injuries.

“Our investigators are reviewing footage which has circulated on social media, as well as CCTV in and around the area and are carrying out extensive lines of enquiries.  We would appeal to anyone who has any information, dashcam or mobile footage relating to any of the disorder, to please call us on 101 quoting log number 144 of 3 August.

“Information can also be passed directly to the investigation team and will be dealt with in the strictest confidence through the Major Incident Public Portal:  

Public Portal (mipp.police.uk) 

“I understand that the disruption that has unfolded today will have been hugely concerning to our communities. I want to reassure people that those responsible for the mindless disorder will be relentlessly pursued by Humberside Police and will be held to account for their criminality.”