Police in England have arrested 16 people following a protest outside a migrant hotel last week.
A small group of people used a peaceful demonstration as cover to commit violent disorder and criminal damage last Thursday, officers said.
The protest outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, started peacefully but escalated into what officers described as “isolated incidents of violence” targeting police and property.
Eight police officers were injured and several police vehicles were damaged by projectiles.
Six people have been charged, including Kenneth Blissett (34) of Long Banks, Harlow, Essex, who was charged on Thursday with stealing police equipment and possessing a bladed weapon.
He remains on bail and will appear at Colchester Magistrates' Court on September 30.
Another man, aged in his 20s, was arrested at an address in Harlow at around 5.45pm on Wednesday on suspicion of violent disorder.
He remains in custody for questioning and police say they have recovered evidence from the crime scene.
Police are also appealing for information about two men they would like to speak to in connection with the violence.
Martin Pygram (33), who has connections in Stansted, Essex, is described as 6ft tall, slim in build, with short brown hair and stubble on his face.
Philip Kerson (52), of no fixed address, is 5ft 8in tall, stocky, with short brown hair and tattoo sleeves on both arms, as well as tattoos on his neck.
Essex Police said they were no longer looking for Sean Thompson (37), who was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remains in custody.
Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said: “We promised we would continue to investigate the unacceptable actions of a small group of people who decided to take advantage of a peaceful protest to try to harm people in Epping or property.
“We are analyzing the footage and we have investigators and trained detectives working on this operation.
“We are identifying the suspects and more arrests will be made in the coming days.
“Simply put, if you try to create trouble, you won't get away with it.”
Detectives also released body-worn video of one of the arrests.
The latest developments come as police prepare for more protests, with the British government and law enforcement agencies vowing to act quickly if unrest spreads.
The protest in Epping was sparked by asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasi Kebatu (38) being charged with sexual assault after he allegedly attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl.
He denied the charges at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court and will stand trial in August.
The protest has attracted national attention and sparked a political row in the UK. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has called for Essex Police Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington to resign over allegations that officers transported left-wing protesters to the scene. The chief denies the allegations.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
