Southport MP Patrick Hurley has condemned the violent riots that erupted in the town following a knife attack that killed three children. He stated that the “thugs” responsible for disrespecting the victims’ families should face the full force of the law. Thirty-nine police officers were injured during the violence, with eight sustaining serious injuries. The rioters were believed to be supporters of the English Defence League and hurled items such as bricks towards a mosque.
Hurley emphasized that the individuals responsible were not residents of Southport but had come from outside to incite violence. He described their actions as utterly reprehensible and called for them to be identified and held accountable. In the aftermath of the riots, residents expressed their disgust and dismay, with shops being looted and cars smashed by the rioters.
Following the unrest, the mother of one of the slain children condemned the violence, urging for it to stop. Former Scottish first minister Humza Yousaf called for the English Defence League to be proscribed under terrorism laws, highlighting the need to tackle far-right violence. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner criticized the dissemination of misinformation on social media and emphasized the importance of allowing authorities to establish the facts and ensure justice is served.
The motive behind Monday’s deadly attack is still unclear, and investigations are ongoing. The Southport community continues to grieve the loss of the three young victims as they come to terms with the aftermath of the violent riots.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com