Public order lead confirms arrests and denounces disinformation

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for public order, BJ Harrington said:

“Both myself and senior officers across the country promised there would be swift, decisive police action against criminals who try to disrupt our communities. That’s what we have delivered.

"Since last night there have been 147 arrests connected to violence in our towns and cities and I expect that number to rise in the coming days.

“Disinformation is a huge driver of this appalling violence and we know a lot of those attending these so-called protests are doing so in direct response to what they’ve read online.

"Often posts are being shared and amplified by high profile accounts. We’re working hard to counteract this. We know we’re not alone and we are drawing together our communities and our partners to help us do even more to silence those intent on spreading false news. They won’t win.

“We all have a part to play in this; please pay special attention to what you read, share and believe from online sources. Think twice before you act.

“It has been encouraging to see local leaders and communities unite and stand together against the division and hatred these criminals pretending to be protesters are stoking up.

“Intelligence teams, detectives and neighbourhood officers are working round the clock to identify and apprehend those involved and make no mistake, if you haven’t had a knock on the door yet, your time will come.

“The number of gatherings are reducing significantly today but we are in no way complacent and you’ll see officers patrolling communities, ready to tackle disorder, clampdown on violence, and prevent crime, regardless of who the offenders are.

"They have stood strong in the face of attempts to spread disorder and in challenging circumstances and I’d like to once again thank every officer, police staff member and special constable on duty this weekend for the their professionalism and dedication, whether on the street or gathering evidence to bring charges against the dozens of suspects who are already custody.

“Attempts to disrupt our communities have no place in our society and I’d like to thank everyone for the support and solidarity they’ve shown.”