Riot cops say ‘legal minority’ sparked sick scenes after evening of violence
Cops who have faced a battering tonight in sickening scenes of mob violence in Leeds say they now believe a “criminal minority” sparked the chaos.
West Yorkshire Police have released a significant new statement following the horrifying riot that brought carnage to an area of Leeds late on Thursday. The chaos saw a bus set ablaze and a police car flipped over while officers were pelted with rocks.
Echoing the concerns and determination to restore order, the latest police statement read: “Police are continuing to attend to a serious disorder incident in the Harehills area this evening. A large number of public order officers have been deployed to the location in what remains an ongoing incident. We wish to reassure residents we are responding to the disorder incidents which have taken place, and that appropriate specialist public order resources are attending.”
The police force issued a stern warning: “Officers are also reviewing footage which has circulated on social media showing offending. All criminal offences, including damage to vehicles from fire, will be fully investigated by detectives from Leeds CID and the force’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team. We want to make it very clear that the full weight of the law will be brought against those responsible. Police can also confirm that no-one has so far been reported to have been hurt in the disorder and police are treating the matter as a serious public order incident. Residents who have perhaps gathered to observe the incidents are asked to keep away from the disorder while officers manage the incident.”
They further cautioned against jumping to conclusions: “We would strongly discourage residents from speculating on the cause of this disorder which we believe has been instigated by a criminal minority intent on disrupting community relations. Officers are aware of incorrect information circulating on social media suggesting persons potentially responsible.”
In an appeal for help, they added: “Members of the public who have reported incidents so far are thanked for their reports and we want to encourage people to contact us with information and footage of offenders. A specialised website will be set up to allow these reports to be made will be set up and further details regarding this on this will follow. Finally, we wish to thank members of communities who are working to reassure residents and calm the situation.”
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding drama.
