News / protest
Police horse punched and two police dogs kicked during Bristol violence
Sixteen people have now been arrested for a number of offences following Saturday’s violence in Bristol which saw a far-right mob attacking a hotel in which children live.
A police horse was punched and two police dogs kicked, with a laser also shone at officers in Castle Park.
Avon & Somerset Police chief inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen said that she and her colleagues “have a long history of facilitating peaceful protest in Bristol, but what we saw last night was not a protest and we will never accept such shameful scenes”.
is needed now More than ever
Offences the 16 people have been arrested for so far include affray, racially-aggravated public order, animal cruelty, assaulting an emergency worker and violent disorder.
Hayward-Melen said: “Those responsible can expect a knock at the door from us soon – we will be relentless in identifying and bringing to justice those who brought criminal violence and disorder to the streets of Bristol yesterday.
“I am incredibly proud of my colleagues who were faced with significant violence and want to also recognise everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver the policing operation yesterday and those who are continuing the investigation today.
“Thankfully we’re not aware of any significant damage being caused in the city other than to one police vehicle and I’d like to thank our communities and all our partners and stakeholders for their support.”
Main photo: Rob Browne
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