News / Crime
Woman arrested during anti-immigration protest
A 37-year-old woman has been arrested following an anti-immigration protest.
Around 20 anti-immigration protesters were met by over a hundred counter-protesters in Castle Park on Saturday.
The anti-immigration group protested from around midday before marching through Broadmead. They were escorted by police as they marched.
is needed now More than ever
Following multiple clashes between anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters, the anti-immigration group disbanded.
Only one arrest was made during the protest.
A 37-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker. Other protesters were detained by the police during the protest but have since been released.
Avon & Somerset Police chief inspector Keith Smith said: “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.”
Police remain in the city centre. As does a Section 34/35 dispersal zone, which will be lifted at 7am on Sunday.
The dispersal zone, per the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, allows police officers to direct people who have committed, or are likely to commit, anti-social behaviour away from an area.
Main photo: Rob Browne
Read next:
- Anti-immigration protesters face off against counter-protesters
- Anti-migrant ‘patriots’ and anti-racism counter-protesters kept apart by police
- Anti-migrant group targets school for City of Sanctuary links
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