Police have released images of eight people they want to identify after protesters threw objects and shouted racist abuse at a demonstration outside a hotel housing migrants in Aldershot.
Hampshire Police said a minority of the 200 people who gathered outside the Potters International Hotel became involved in the disruption on Wednesday evening.
It comes as violent protests have erupted across the country in locations such as Hartlepool and London in relation to the Southport stabbing rampage that saw three little girls killed on Monday.
Appealing for witnesses, a spokesman said: ‘Investigations are under way today to take action against those who sparked disruption in Aldershot last night.
‘A protest took place outside the Potters International Hotel and as with previous protests at this site, the majority of attendees gathered in a peaceful manner.
‘Unfortunately, at around 6.45pm, a minority of the 200 people present got involved in criminal activity, throwing objects and subjecting people to racial abuse.
‘Our officers were swiftly on scene and were able to disperse the group quickly.
‘Sadly, one of our officers suffered a minor injury as a result of the disruption.
‘We have immediately instigated a thorough investigation to identify those responsible, which includes reviewing evidence from our officers’ body-worn cameras, footage captured by our colleagues at National Police Air Service and CCTV cameras in the local area.
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo said: ‘The swift and decisive actions of our officers last night saw this incident brought under control, preventing further harm to the community in Aldershot.
‘Everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest. However, officers will take a robust stance against those whose behaviour falls below the standard we expect and who choose to act outside of the law.’
Alex Baker, Labour MP for Aldershot, said the situation had been ‘exacerbated’ by people from outside the community.
In a statement posted on X, she wrote: ‘I have been liaising with Hampshire Police this evening regarding a significant incident at Potter’s International Hotel in Aldershot, where a peaceful protest descended into intimidating behaviour.
‘I have visited the scene myself this evening and have been in close touch with the Chief Inspector.
‘I would like to pay tribute to the brave police officers who worked hard to restore order.
‘There is no justification for disorderly behaviour and these scenes do not represent Aldershot and Farnborough.
‘It comes as families in Hartlepool revealed how they were too terrified to leave their homes as rioters wreaked terror on the streets following the Southport knife attack.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting 44240326041.
