Riot police were deployed for a third consecutive night in Thetford, Norfolk, as protests against the housing of asylum seekers in the town escalated into disorder. Crowds gathered, chanting anti-immigration slogans and engaging in vandalism, leading to multiple arrests.
On Thursday evening, Norfolk Police arrested two men. One was detained on suspicion of inciting racial hatred in connection with events on Wednesday, while the other was arrested for being drunk and disorderly. Police powers were increased following earlier unrest.
Demonstrators hurled eggs at properties and chanted "Get them out, get them out." Police in full public order gear formed a line to protect the houses believed to be accommodating asylum seekers. The atmosphere remained tense, with officers reporting instances of being bitten and spat at.
The unrest began on Tuesday, reportedly after residents learned that asylum seekers were being housed in local properties. Initial protests focused on a house on St John’s Way, where crowds attempted to force entry, smashing a window and breaking a fence. Five men who were in the property were escorted out by police that evening. "We won't stop until they're gone. We don't want them here," one local resident stated.
Further incidents occurred on Wednesday night and into Thursday. A property on Bracken Road had its windows and front door smashed. Up to 100 people were reportedly involved in the disorder across three properties. During an incident at a residence on Clover Way, a male officer was struck by a rock, and a female officer sustained a bite that broke the skin.
Assistant Chief Constable Julie Dean acknowledged the right to peaceful protest but stated, "There is no place for violence, intimidation or criminal behaviour." A government spokesperson commented that the "concerns of communities are central to our immigration reforms."
Local MP Terry Jermy condemned the behaviour. Among those arrested and charged were a man in his 30s on suspicion of a public order offense, and a local man, Brian Thompson, 68, charged with possession of a weapon. Another man in his 40s remained in custody.
The recent disturbances in Thetford follow weeks of protests at a nearby former military barracks earmarked to house 1,250 male migrants.