The deed has shocked the entire United Kingdom. On Tuesday, violent riots broke out in Southport, driven by false rumors about the perpetrator's identity that circulated online. According to the police, the rioters are believed to have been part of a right-wing extremist group.
Over 50 police officers were injured, with around 20 being taken to hospital, as demonstrators threw bricks and bottles at them. Trash cans and cars were set on fire, and a store was looted.
Riots in London
Late on Wednesday evening, the violence had spread to the capital. A hundred demonstrators threw beer cans and fireworks near the Prime Minister's residence on Downing Street in London. Over 100 people were arrested, including suspects of attacking rescue personnel, according to the London police.
Trouble also erupted in the town of Hartlepool in northeastern England in connection with demonstrations by right-wing extremist groups, linking the knife attack to immigration. The arrested 17-year-old was born in the UK to parents from Rwanda.
In an unusual legal decision, the police authority chose to name the arrested, despite being a minor, to avoid speculation.
New Tough Methods
Prime Minister Keir Starmer simultaneously launched a harsh attack on social media platforms, demanding that they follow laws aimed at stopping the spread of disinformation and lies. Starmer also summoned police chiefs for a meeting about the unrest.
The Prime Minister announced new methods to stop riots. These include sharing information, increased use of facial recognition technology, and travel restrictions for criminals.
These thugs are mobile, they move from community to community. We need a police response that does the same, said Starmer.
