Two Yeovil men were among five people arrested following protests on Weymouth seafront. The demonstration, which took place on Sunday, August 4, saw around 400 anti-immigration protesters gathering on the esplanade.
A separate group of approximately 200 Stand Up to Racism demonstrators also assembled in a different part of the seafront. Both factions engaged in verbal confrontations, with counter-protesters chanting “shame on you.”
In a bid to manage the situation, law enforcement intervened, resulting in two officers sustaining injuries. Three individuals were taken into custody during the event.
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A 42-year-old man from Yeovil was arrested for a suspected public order offense, while a 62-year-old man, also from Yeovil, was apprehended for being drunk and disorderly.
Additionally, a 27-year-old man from Weymouth was arrested for assault. Two dispersal orders were issued against two local 15-year-olds.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan stated, “Our approach was to enable peaceful protests, but if people were intent on committing public order or criminal offences, they would be dealt with robustly as such behaviors would not be tolerated."
He also expressed disappointment over the injury of two officers during the operation, emphasizing that the offenders would be brought to justice.
“We have been liaising with the organizers of both groups to ensure people can exercise their right to protest without causing significant or ongoing disruption,” he added.
The Home Office confirmed that rumors about the relocation of asylum seekers to the area were false, and there are no asylum seekers housed in Weymouth hotels.
“I am incredibly proud of how our officers and staff have ensured we continue to deliver a safe Dorset while ensuring our communities are safe and feel safe,” Callaghan concluded.