Durham riot warning as police threaten 'robust' crackdown on planned far-right protest
Police in Durham are poised to deal with potential disruption amid reports of a planned protest on Tuesday night.
Durham police warned that "violent disorder from people intent on harming our communities will not be tolerated" amid rumours of "potential planned disorder" in the city tonight, August 6.
The force issued a statement saying they are aware of online reports regarding a potential protest, one week after the first of a series of riots led by far-right thugs erupted in Southport.
The Durham City Police statement read: "Police are aware of reports circulating online of potential planned disorder in Durham City this evening (Tuesday, August 6).
"There will be an increased police presence throughout the day, and a dispersal order for the city centre has been in place since noon."
Police officers, the statement added, have been given through the authorisation of section 60 and 60AA powers enhanced stop and search powers and the authority to order the removal of face coverings intended to disguise or conceal people's identity.
The statement continued: "Police will do everything in their power to identify any individuals attending the city with the intent of causing disorder, and each will be dealt with robustly."
Chief Superintendent Dave Coxon, of Durham Constabulary, said: "While we will always support and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, violent disorder from people intent on harming our communities will not be tolerated.
"Our officers are committed to protecting the communities we serve, and advice has been given to residents and local businesses to reassure them of our support.
"Our advice to anyone considering engaging in disorder is not to attend."
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Mounting fears over a fresh wave of violence in the country come as UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is to chair another emergency COBRA meeting tonight.
Mr Starmer will discuss the riots that have been gripping the country since last Tuesday with ministers and police chiefs - as police forces across the country are braced for fresh disorder amid reports of several potential events tonight and dozens of possible gatherings on Wednesday.
