Violent clashes broke out between protesters and police officers outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, amid ongoing tensions surrounding the accommodation of asylum seekers at the location.
The confrontation erupted on Thursday evening, with fireworks reportedly launched and eggs thrown at the building. A section of High Road in Epping was cordoned off by Essex Police for public safety.
The protest followed outrage over a recent court appearance involving Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old man accused of attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. He denied the sexual assault allegation during his arraignment at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court earlier in the day.
Police confirmed that one man was arrested on suspicion of affray linked to a separate incident during a previous protest on Sunday, July 13. “He will be taken into custody while our inquiries continue,” the force said in a statement.
Read Also: Eleven dead as Kenyan protests escalate over high costs, police brutality
One police officer sustained a minor neck injury during the altercation.
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow condemned the violent turn of events, stating, “Disruption and offending is never an appropriate response, no matter the strength of feeling in this case or on this issue.”
He added that while peaceful and lawful protests are respected, criminal activity would not be tolerated.
“We know the people who carried out these crimes do not represent Epping or Essex. Nothing about the offending we saw tonight is representative of these communities,” Anslow said.
According to Essex Police, detectives are now analyzing CCTV, drone footage, bodycam recordings, and videos shared on social media to identify offenders. Authorities have vowed to take swift action against anyone found responsible.
This is not the first demonstration to occur outside the Bell Hotel, which has been at the center of local controversy for its reported use as a temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. Tensions have risen among some community members following recent incidents, though officials urge calm and lawful behavior.