Riot erupts at protest near Epping hotel
A protest outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, escalated into violence after initially starting peacefully with around 300 participants, including locals and anti-racism counter-demonstrators. The protest was sparked by the presence of Ethiopian asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who had recently appeared in court for alleged sexual offenses. Tensions rose sharply when far-right activists joined the demonstration, leading to confrontations with riot police.
Protesters began hurling projectiles such as bottles, eggs, and fireworks at law enforcement, with some individuals climbing onto and vandalizing police vans. Dramatic footage showed masked individuals launching flares and physically assaulting police vehicles. By the end of the night, eight officers had sustained injuries from the violent clashes.
Police formed cordons to protect counter-protesters and ultimately dispersed the crowd by late evening. Two arrests were made, including a 65-year-old man on suspicion of affray. Essex Police officials condemned the violence, labeling it as "mindless thuggery" and reaffirming their commitment to lawful protest while warning that criminal behavior would be met with firm action.
The unrest followed a previous incident where two security guards at the hotel were seriously assaulted, prompting investigations into potential hate crimes. Local officials, including MPs, have called for the closure of the Bell and nearby hotels due to community safety concerns and ongoing far-right tensions. A petition for the Bell's closure has garnered over 4,500 signatures.
The protest highlights growing tensions surrounding asylum-seeker housing and immigration policies, coinciding with upcoming reforms such as the 2025 Border Security Bill. Authorities stress that while public concern regarding safety is valid, violence and hate-driven actions will not be tolerated.
