The United Kingdom is bracing for a potential ‘big day’ of unrest as far-right groups plan to target up to 38 locations across the country, including immigration centers and law firms supporting asylum seekers. In response, British authorities have mobilized a ‘standing army’ of 6,000 specialist police officers to combat any outbreaks of violence.The ongoing unrest, which began after a knife attack in Southport that killed three young girls, has been fueled by misinformation spread online about the attacker’s background. Despite authorities clarifying that the 17-year-old suspect, Axel Rudakubana, was born in Wales to Rwandan parents and is reportedly Christian, far-right groups have continued to spread false claims that he was a Muslim immigrant.Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the violence as ‘far-right thuggery’ and warned of severe consequences for those involved. ‘I expect substantial convictions this week, which will send a powerful message to those directly or online involved that they will be held accountable within a week,’ Starmer stated after an emergency Cobra meeting.The justice system has begun to process cases related to the unrest, with three protesters receiving prison sentences on Tuesday. Judge Andrew Menary, when handing down the sentences, said, ‘The genuine and collective pain of the residents of Southport was effectively hijacked by this insensitive behavior’.The situation has drawn international attention, with several countries issuing travel warnings for the UK. The unrest has also sparked criticism from various quarters, including artists and activists who have called on the government to address the root causes of racism and Islamophobia.As tensions remain high, anti-fascist groups have organized counter-demonstrations in response to the planned far-right protests. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to protecting targeted communities, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan calling for ‘zero-tolerance for racism, Islamophobia, and hate’.
Key points
- Far-right groups are planning to target up to 38 locations across the UK, including immigration centers and law firms.
- British authorities have mobilized 6,000 specialist police officers to combat potential violence.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer has warned of severe consequences for those involved in the unrest.
- The justice system has begun sentencing protesters, with three receiving prison terms on Tuesday.
Contradictions👾While some sources report 30 targeted locations, others mention 38 or 39 potential targets, indicating some discrepancy in the exact number of locations at risk.
