11 police officers and dog injured after violent clashes over Henry Nowak murder as Tommy Robinson attends protest
Police have responded following the intimidating scenes
Eleven police officers and a dog were injured after violent clashes between officers and protesters following the murder of Henry Nowak.
Two people were arrested for assaulting police and possession of a weapon after hundreds gathered outside Southampton Central Police Station where Tommy Robinson – real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon – and actor and campaigner Laurence Fox were among those who spoke to the crowd.
Hampshire Police said the number of arrests would increase as investigations continue into the disorder.
Seven of the officers attacked had bricks thrown at them, but none of their injuries were serious, Hampshire Police Federation said.
Violent scenes broke out after a large group walked across town to the area of Portswood. Demonstrators chanted “Henry, Henry” as the line of police were pelted with bricks.
Chairs, cans and flares were thrown at police in riot gear, eventually forcing officers and three police vans back from the line they had been holding.
The violence has led to police calling for calm with chief constable Alexis Boon saying: "We understand and appreciate as police officers that we are accountable for our actions. What we ask, however, is that those actions are judged through fair and transparent processes. In this case, that process is already underway with the IOPC conducting their independent investigation.
"What we, as a society, cannot accept is the violent scenes we saw in Southampton last night.
"Some clearly arrived intent on causing disorder and trouble. We saw bottles thrown, makeshift weapons used, damage caused to the homes and vehicles of innocent residents and threats and violence directed towards our officers.
"As a result, 11 officers and one police dog were injured, while trying to do their job to protect the communities that we serve.
"While we are forced to deal with those determined to spark fear and division, our finite resources are taken away from those who need it most.”
He added: "I know how intimidating the scenes from last night must have been for those living and working in the area and to you, I must stress, we have incredibly experienced teams of officers who are working around the clock to keep you safe - that is our absolute priority.
"You will see more of my officers patrolling your neighbourhoods over the coming days and specialist intelligence teams are supporting those on the frontline.
"My officers, and those who supported us from other forces, bravely and robustly faced violence with professionalism and courage last night and this morning our investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the disorder.
"Last night, we made two arrests and that number will rise as those investigations continue. I know that since the release of the body-worn video footage from the night of Henry Nowak’s murder, there is a desire for answers and accountability but that must be done in the right way and not used as an excuse to threaten and intimidate my officers and bring violence to our streets causing fear and harm to those living and working in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight."