Police have arrested 12 people in connection with an anti-immigration demonstration in Brighton this morning (Saturday 4 June).
At about 9.27am, police received reports of an assault and criminal damage involving a large group of masked individuals dressed in black in Ship Street.
Within about 10 minutes, a number of people were arrested in nearby London Road.
Police Arrests
Chief Superintendent Nev Kemp said: “We’re confident that having made a number of arrests at such an early stage, we have significantly reduced the risk of disruption and disorder in the town centre.
“Unfortunately, whilst the vast majority of demonstrators act peacefully, a small minority appear to have come with the intention to cause problems.
“Following the above events, we are enforcing Section 60AA of the Public Order Act, which gives us the right to remove people’s face masks if we feel they are likely to be involved in criminal activity or violence and are concealing their identity.
“We’re also investigating reports of an assault and criminal damage, and we expect further arrests to follow.
“We have increased patrols in the area but following the quick arrests, I am pleased to say that there is no continuing disorder or disruption to the city centre. I would encourage anyone who witnesses any incidents of disruption or disorder to contact police on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting Operation Medland.”
12 men arrested on suspicion of breach of peace remain in police custody at this stage.
