Hampshire Police Hunt Rioters After Aldershot Hotel Chaos
Hampshire Police have launched a hunt for seven suspects linked to a violent riot outside the Potter International Hotel in Aldershot last Wednesday evening. The unrest included criminal damage, intimidation, and racial abuse.
Seven Faces Wanted Over Aldershot Mayhem
The trouble kicked off around 6.45pm as a small faction of a 200-strong protest turned nasty. Police have released a rogues’ gallery of seven individuals they want to question. Initially eight were named, but one has been identified and cleared.
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said, “Do you know the people pictured? Do you have any information that could assist our investigation?”
Authorities are combing through bodycam footage, National Police Air Service shots, and local CCTV for clues. Anyone with info is urged to call 101 quoting reference 44240326041.
Local MP Blames Outsiders for Stirring Trouble
Labour MP Alex Baker slammed the riot, saying it was fuelled by troublemakers from outside the Aldershot community. She praised police efforts and made it clear that peaceful protest is welcome but criminal chaos won’t be tolerated.
“This incident was exacerbated by people from outside our community who came here determined to cause unrest,” Baker said. “We will not stand for people coming to our towns determined to stir up trouble and divide our community.”
Riots Spread: Greater Manchester Sees Similar Violence
It’s not just Aldershot. Greater Manchester faced its own unrest in Newton Heath where rocks and bottles were hurled at officers during protests outside a Holiday Inn. Two men, aged 18 and 25, were arrested for violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker.
Police are still investigating an assault on a bus driver linked to the disturbances.
National Crackdown as Police Warn Rioters
Following several nationwide incidents, including in Hartlepool and London, Home Office Minister Lord Hanson has warned rioters they face the “full force of the law.”
He confirmed intelligence-led policing and facial recognition tech are being used to track and prosecute those behind violent protests.
“We have powers under existing legislation to stop you organising this now and to take action accordingly,” Lord Hanson said.
Police Vow Action to Protect Communities
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo praised the swift police response that brought the Aldershot riot under control, preventing further harm.
“It is totally unacceptable to turn that lawful right into criminal acts including criminal damage, racial abuse, and intimidation. This will not be tolerated in Hampshire and Isle of Wight,” he said.
Police continue to urge witnesses to come forward and help bring those responsible to justice.
For full details and to see the wanted individuals’ images, visit the Hampshire Police website.
