Starmer to meet with police chiefs after violent riots erupt over Southport tragedy

Sir Keir Starmer demands crackdown on 'mindless violence'

Sir Keir Starmer is set to meet with police chiefs to address the recent wave of "extremely violent" riots that have erupted following the tragic Southport killings. The PM is calling for the perpetrators of the rioting to face the full force of the law.

Violent clashes outside Downing Street and in Hartlepool

More than 100 people were arrested after violent clashes outside Downing Street, with flares, beer cans, and glass bottles being thrown. In Hartlepool, louts threw bricks at officers and torched a police car in a separate incident.

Urgent meeting to address exploitation of protest rights

Sir Keir Starmer will emphasize to police chiefs the importance of preventing criminals from exploiting protest rights to carry out violent acts. He will urge them to use their powers to stop mindless violence and ensure justice is served.

Rioting sparked by misinformation

The riots followed a tragic stabbing attack in Southport, leading to speculation and tension in the community. Superintendent Neil Holyoak condemned the violent disorder as unacceptable and driven by misinformation.

Local residents condemn violence

Southport locals expressed dismay at the eruption of violence, with one resident describing the scene as mayhem and attributing it to organized criminals hijacking the town's grief.