Police have released images of six men they wish to speak to following violent disorder in Portsmouth that left seven officers injured. The incident occurred last Sunday night at Eastney Marina, where about 200 people gathered after a small boat carrying asylum seekers arrived on the south coast.
Violent Disorder in Portsmouth: What Happened?
According to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, the disorder broke out after a small boat carrying asylum seekers arrived on the south coast having crossed the Channel. About 200 people gathered at Eastney Marina on Sunday night, and the activists dispersed in the early hours of the following day. During the chaos, seven police officers were injured and treated at the scene. Vehicles belonging to the Coastguard and Border Force were also damaged.
Police Release Images of Six Men
The force said it reviewed “hundreds of hours’ worth” of footage from the disorder and released images of six men it believes “can assist our investigation”. Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson stated that the scenes at Eastney Marina had gone beyond peaceful protest. The police are urging anyone who recognizes the men to come forward.
Key Takeaways
- Seven police officers were injured during the violent disorder in Portsmouth.
- Vehicles belonging to the Coastguard and Border Force were damaged.
- Police have released images of six men they want to speak to.
- Del Leon Somerville, 42, has been charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police constable.
- A 16-year-old boy from Waterlooville was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and released on bail until 12 December.
- Anti-immigration activists returned to Portsmouth on Saturday, facing counter-protests from anti-racism groups.
Investigation and Charges
The first person charged in connection with the demonstration appeared in court on Saturday morning. Del Leon Somerville, 42, from Paulsgrove, Portsmouth, appeared at the city’s magistrates court charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police constable. Additionally, a 16-year-old boy from Waterlooville was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in connection with last Sunday’s events. He has been released on bail until 12 December.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Tensions
Anti-immigration activists returned to the streets of Portsmouth on Saturday afternoon, where they faced counter-protests from anti-racism groups. The situation remains tense as police continue their investigation. Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson emphasized that the disorder was not a peaceful protest and that those responsible will be held accountable.
How You Can Help
Anyone with information about the six men in the images or the violent disorder is urged to contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. The police have set up a dedicated line for tips. Your assistance could be crucial in bringing those responsible to justice.
FAQ
What happened during the violent disorder in Portsmouth?
About 200 people gathered at Eastney Marina after a small boat carrying asylum seekers arrived. Seven police officers were injured, and vehicles belonging to the Coastguard and Border Force were damaged.
Who are the six men police are looking for?
Police have released images of six men they believe can assist with the investigation into the violent disorder. They are urging anyone who recognizes them to come forward.
Has anyone been charged in connection with the disorder?
Yes, Del Leon Somerville, 42, from Paulsgrove, Portsmouth, has been charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police constable. A 16-year-old boy from Waterlooville was also arrested and released on bail.
Conclusion
The violent disorder in Portsmouth has left the community shaken and police officers injured. As the investigation continues, authorities are appealing to the public for help in identifying the six men. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary immediately.
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