Six Arrested After Violent Protest at Bell Hotel in Epping
Essex Police have arrested six people following another night of chaos outside The Bell Hotel in Epping on Sunday, 20 July. The disturbances come amid ongoing tensions over the hotel’s use to house asylum seekers.
Violent Disorder and Police Injuries
Four of those arrested face charges of violent disorder linked to last Thursday’s chaotic protest, which saw multiple officers injured and property damaged. A Norfolk police officer was hit in the face with a bottle and needed hospital treatment.
Another suspect was nabbed for damaging a police vehicle, while a sixth was caught carrying items intended for criminal damage.
Disturbingly, a woman walking through the crowd was targeted with missiles and verbal abuse before officers escorted her to safety.
Police Clamp Down with Tough Powers
To control the unrest, officers used Section 60AA of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act, forcing protesters to remove face coverings like balaclavas. A Section 35 dispersal order cleared the area, including Epping High Road, which stayed closed for hours, causing disruption.
“We are grateful to the residents of Epping for their patience and support during the road closures,” said a police spokesperson.
Police remained on high alert overnight, keeping a strong presence into Monday morning to protect the community.
Who Got Banged Up?
- A 36-year-old man from Epping – violent disorder
- A 47-year-old man from Waltham Abbey – violent disorder
- A 34-year-old man from Wickford – breaching Section 60AA face covering order
- A 51-year-old man from Epping – violent disorder
- A 17-year-old male from North Weald – criminal damage to a vehicle
- A 16-year-old male from South 1 – equipped to cause criminal damage
Chief Superintendent Delivers Stern Warning
“Yet another protest began peacefully but quickly escalated into mindless thuggery. We won’t tolerate this lawlessness — and we’ve made that clear with tonight’s arrests.”
“There’s been misinformation online suggesting Essex Police are not impartial. Let me be clear: we arrest criminals, we do not take sides.”
“To those coming to cause trouble: our cells are ready, and that’s where you’ll be sleeping.”
What Sparks the Protests?
The trouble revolves around The Bell Hotel, which has housed asylum seekers. Tensions exploded after 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu was charged with sexual assault for allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. He denies the charges.
Since then, clashes between counter-protesters, nationalist groups, and local residents have become a near-nightly occurrence outside the hotel.
