News / Politics
Green councillor ‘shocked and disgusted’ by policing during anti-immigration protest
A senior Green Party councillor has said they were “shocked and disgusted” by the policing of an anti-immigration protest in the city centre.
On Saturday, more than 100 protesters faced off against around 20 anti-immigration protesters in Castle Park.
The anti-immigration group then began to march through Broadmead but were prevented from moving further through the area by counter-protesters.
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Some police officers were seen forcefully pushing counter-protesters away from the anti-immigration group, drawing concern from some of the legal observers in the crowd.
One woman was arrested during the protest and although several others were detained they have since been released.
On Instagram, Green councillor for Central ward, Ani Townsend, said: “‘Shame on you’ chant the anti-fascist counter-protesters trying to prevent a group of far right, racist anti-migrant bullies from getting to what they think is an asylum hotel whilst Avon & Somerset Police attempt to ‘facilitate’ the march.
“Utterly shocked and disgusted by the violence I witnessed from officers today. Hitting people, throwing people to the ground, hiding their badge numbers, some doing so whilst wearing a union flag themselves.
“This was not neutral policing today. It was dangerous. It was inflammatory. It was irresponsible.
“And they funnelled an increasingly hairy protest into the middle of a Lego promotional event full of children with complete disregard for public safety.
“I and my Green councillor colleagues in attendance will be making multiple strong complaints about the policing choices made today. It could have been peaceful, poor choices made it violent and traumatic.
“If you were there, or you witnessed events, please consider a complaint or getting in touch.”
Townsend was one of several Green councillors in the area on Saturday, who included Mohamed Makawi, Lorraine Francis and Christine Townsend.
In a statement, Avon & Somerset Police said: “We are aware of these comments around yesterday’s policing operation and we are seeking to arrange a convenient time to listen to the councillor’s concerns.
“Officers’ deployed at the protests, who are trained in public order policing, were wearing bodyworn cameras.
“Should any complaints be received, that footage will be reviewed by our Professional Standards Department as part of the standard assessment process, where deemed appropriate.”
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Soon after the protest on Saturday, Avon & Somerset Police chief inspector Keith Smith said in a statement: “Our priority today has been to enable lawful peaceful protest for both groups.
“Our officers have dealt admirably with a really challenging situation and I’d like to take the opportunity to thank them for their professionalism.
“While there were moments of disturbance, we’re pleased to say the two protests have passed without significant incident.
“We worked with Bristol City Council to try to minimise disruption to other members of the public and that did mean a road closure was required, but this has now been lifted.
“We’re grateful for people’s patience while we policed these protests.”
A dispersal zone remained in the city centre until 7am on Sunday, allowing police officers to direct people who had committed, or were likely to commit, anti-social behaviour away from the area.
Main photo: Rob Browne
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